The White Knights return: Inside Zamalek’s quest to reclaim the CAF Champions League

Zamalek will begin their 2026 /27 CAF Champions League campaign against Djibouti's AS Port following Thursday's preliminary round draw in Cairo.

Read Also: From the Cairo draw to the round of 32: Unpacking Al Ahly’s 2026/27 Confederation Cup path

What happened?

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) conducted the preliminary draw for the upcoming continental club competitions on Thursday afternoon.

Returning to the Champions League after missing the last three editions, Zamalek will open their tournament in the first preliminary round (round of 64) against Djiboutian side AS Port.

Should the White Knights successfully navigate their opening tie, they will advance to the round of 32 to face the winner of the matchup between DR Congo's Aigles du Congo and Rwanda's APR FC.

Zamalek’s return to the continent's elite competition is a major milestone for the club. Having secured their place as an Egyptian representative following a strong domestic campaign, the five time African champions are determined to challenge for continental glory once again.

Drawing AS Port provides a highly favorable opening hurdle. Zamalek possess significantly more continental pedigree and technical quality than their Djiboutian counterparts.

The technical staff's primary task will be ensuring the squad is physically prepared for competitive action early in the pre season, avoiding any potential upsets while safely securing their path to the group stage.

What Happens Next?

Zamalek will travel to play the first leg away from home in Djibouti on 4, 5 or 6 September.

The decisive return leg will be hosted in Egypt the following week, on 11, 12 or 13 September. The squad will now focus entirely on their pre season training camp to build match fitness ahead of their first competitive fixture of the new season.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

Zamalek SC

CAF Champions League