Orlando Pirates, RS Berkane and Simba SC face a demanding battle for qualification in Group C of the 2026/27 CAF Champions League, with Cameroon’s Colombe Sportive completing a group that brings together clubs from four different footballing nations.
The draw in Cairo on Wednesday has set up a compelling contest, with all four teams targeting a place in the knockout stages of Africa’s premier club competition.
Morocco’s RS Berkane will draw on their experience in continental football as they seek to navigate the group successfully. Having established themselves as a force in African competitions, Berkane will be determined to demonstrate that they can compete at the highest level of the Champions League.
However, they face strong opposition from Orlando Pirates, who will be eager to make their mark on the continental stage. The South African giants have a rich history in African club football and will view the group as an opportunity to advance their ambitions in the competition.
Simba and Colombe aim to upset the favourites
Tanzania’s Simba SC add another major challenge to the group. The club have considerable experience in African competitions and will be aiming to turn that pedigree into consistent results against their three opponents.
Simba’s campaign could prove decisive in shaping the qualification race, particularly in matches against the group’s two better-known continental names.
Cameroon’s Colombe Sportive, meanwhile, will approach the group stage with the ambition of making a strong impression on their first appearance at this level. Their qualification represents a significant milestone for the club, which will now face a higher standard of opposition and the challenge of competing across a demanding six-match schedule.
For Colombe, the group offers an opportunity to test themselves against established continental sides and build their reputation beyond Cameroon.
Consistency could decide Group C
With two quarter-final places available, every result will matter. Squad depth, defensive discipline and the ability to secure points away from home could prove decisive as the clubs balance domestic commitments with continental football.
Orlando Pirates and RS Berkane are likely to attract much of the attention because of their profiles and experience, but Simba’s continental pedigree and Colombe’s desire to make history mean the group cannot be taken for granted.
The group stage is scheduled to begin in late November 2026 and conclude in January 2027. All four clubs will be looking for a strong start as they pursue qualification for the knockout rounds.
