South African Giants Overtake Al Ahly to Become CAF’s Highest-Ranked Team for 2026/27 Season

Mamelodi Sundowns have officially cemented their status as Africa’s top football club ahead of the CAF Champions League final, regardless of the outcome against Moroccan giants AS FAR.

The Pretoria-based club has climbed to the top of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) five-year club rankings, a major achievement that reflects their remarkable consistency in continental football over recent seasons.

The ranking means Sundowns will enter the 2026/27 CAF Champions League campaign as Africa’s number one seed.

The first leg of the CAF Champions League final is scheduled to take place in Pretoria on Sunday, with enormous continental prestige and additional ranking points still at stake.

Sundowns Officially Become Africa’s Top Club

The CAF rankings are calculated using club performances in African competitions over the past five seasons.

These rankings reward:

• CAF Champions League progress
• Confederation Cup performances
• Consistency in continental football
• Recent achievements with greater weighting

Thanks to multiple deep runs in CAF competitions, Mamelodi Sundowns have now overtaken Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly at the top of the standings.

Sundowns’ CAF Ranking Points Explained

Current CAF Club Rankings

Sundowns already lead the rankings before the CAF Champions League final even begins.

A victory over AS FAR would increase their lead even further.

Why Sundowns Reached the Top

The club’s consistent continental performances over the past five years have been extraordinary.

Sundowns’ CAF Performances Over Five Seasons

This sustained success has allowed Sundowns to establish themselves as one of Africa’s most respected football institutions.

CAF Champions League Final Still Massive for Sundowns

Although the rankings are already secured, the final against AS FAR remains hugely important.

What Is Still at Stake?

Winning the competition would provide:

• Additional CAF ranking points
• Major prize money
• Increased international exposure
• Greater sponsorship value
• Historic continental success
• Improved player market values

The two-legged final could also strengthen Sundowns’ reputation as the dominant club in African football.

What Being Africa’s Number One Club Means

Finishing top of CAF’s rankings provides several strategic advantages.

Benefits of Being CAF’s Top-Ranked Club

CAF uses these rankings to structure draws and qualification pathways in continental competitions.

Orlando Pirates Also Climb CAF Rankings

Orlando Pirates continue improving their own continental standing after recent strong performances.

The Buccaneers are currently ranked 19th in Africa.

Pirates’ Recent CAF Success

Their ranking has been boosted by:

• CAF Champions League semi-final appearance
• CAF Confederation Cup final appearance in 2022

Although still far behind Sundowns, Pirates remain one of South Africa’s strongest continental representatives.

Other South African Clubs in CAF Rankings

Several PSL clubs also appear in CAF’s five-year ranking system.

South African Clubs Ranked by CAF

These rankings are based on performances in CAF competitions over the last five seasons.

Kaizer Chiefs Return to Continental Football

Kaizer Chiefs are set to return to CAF competition next season after securing qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup.

Their return could improve South Africa’s overall CAF country ranking if they perform strongly.

South Africa’s CAF Country Ranking Under Threat

CAF also ranks countries based on the collective performances of their clubs.

Current CAF Country Rankings

However, South Africa’s position is now under pressure.

Algeria Could Overtake South Africa

USM Alger recently won the CAF Confederation Cup final, strengthening Algeria’s position in the rankings.

If Sundowns lose the CAF Champions League final, South Africa could potentially drop from third to fourth in the CAF country standings.

This matters because CAF rankings determine how many teams each country can enter into continental competitions.

Why CAF Rankings Matter Financially

Strong continental rankings can create significant commercial benefits.

Financial Advantages of High CAF Rankings

For clubs like Sundowns, continental success has become increasingly important both competitively and financially.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is Africa’s top-ranked football club?

Mamelodi Sundowns are currently Africa’s top-ranked club.

How are CAF rankings calculated?

CAF rankings are based on club performances in continental competitions over five seasons.

Which club is second behind Sundowns?

Al Ahly are currently second.

What advantage does the top ranking give Sundowns?

Benefits include better seeding, potential byes, and improved group-stage draws.

Can South Africa lose its CAF country ranking position?

Yes. Algeria could overtake South Africa depending on CAF final results.

Final Thoughts

Mamelodi Sundowns becoming Africa’s highest-ranked football club represents another major milestone in the club’s modern era of dominance.

Regardless of what happens in the CAF Champions League final against AS FAR, Sundowns have already proven themselves as one of the continent’s most consistent and successful football institutions.

Their rise to the top of African football also highlights the growing strength and global profile of South African club football on the continental stage.

MTN8 Qualification, Championship Glory and Survival All on the Line in Explosive Season Finale

The 2025/26 Betway Premiership season heads toward a dramatic conclusion on Saturday with the league title, MTN8 qualification, and relegation survival all still hanging in the balance.

Orlando Pirates enter the final day with a chance to secure their first league championship in 14 years, while several clubs at the bottom of the table continue fighting to avoid relegation disaster.

Across the league, six of the remaining seven fixtures still carry major consequences, setting up one of the most dramatic final rounds in recent South African football history.

Only the match between Golden Arrows and TS Galaxy has little impact on the final standings.

Orlando Pirates Face Win-or-Bust Title Mission

The championship equation is simple for Orlando Pirates.

Pirates Must Win

The Buccaneers must defeat Orbit College to secure the league title.

Anything less than victory will hand Mamelodi Sundowns a remarkable ninth consecutive league championship.

The decisive clash will take place at Mbombela Stadium, where thousands of Pirates supporters are expected to create an intense atmosphere as the club chases another historic moment.

What Is at Stake for Orlando Pirates?

A league triumph would represent:

The pressure on the Pirates squad and coaching staff will be enormous.

Mamelodi Sundowns Wait for Pirates Result

Mamelodi Sundowns have already completed their league fixtures as they focus on preparations for the CAF Champions League final second leg.

Despite not playing on the final day, Sundowns remain in pole position to retain the championship if Pirates fail to win.

The Pretoria giants continue dominating South African football and are aiming to extend one of the most successful league dynasties in PSL history.

MTN8 Qualification Race Still Alive

Several clubs remain locked in a battle to secure the final positions in next season’s lucrative MTN8 competition.

Teams Already Qualified

The following clubs have officially secured MTN8 qualification:

• Mamelodi Sundowns
• Orlando Pirates
• Kaizer Chiefs
• AmaZulu FC
• Sekhukhune United
• Golden Arrows
• Polokwane City

Only one place remains available.

Durban City Hold the Advantage

Durban City are favourites to secure the final MTN8 place.

Current Situation

| Club | Points | Goal Difference |
|—|—|
| Durban City | 39 | 0 |
| Stellenbosch FC | 36 | -4 |
| Siwelele | 36 | -4 |

Durban City only need a draw against AmaZulu FC to guarantee qualification.

Even defeat may still be enough depending on other results.

Stellenbosch and Siwelele Still Have Hope

Both Stellenbosch FC and Siwelele still have slim chances of finishing in the top eight.

What They Need

Stellenbosch FC

• Must beat Marumo Gallants
• Need Durban City to lose
• Must improve goal difference significantly

Siwelele

• Must defeat Sekhukhune United
• Need Durban City to lose
• Must overcome goal difference disadvantage

Goal difference could become decisive if Durban City lose narrowly.

Relegation Battle Could Produce Chaos

The battle to avoid automatic relegation and the promotion/relegation play-offs remains extremely tense.

Clubs Still in Danger

| Club | Points | Goal Difference |
|—|—|
| Magesi FC | 21 | -20 |
| Orbit College | 24 | -24 |
| Marumo Gallants | 24 | -17 |
| Chippa United | 25 | -21 |

Magesi FC Fighting for Survival

Bottom club Magesi FC still have a mathematical chance of survival.

Magesi’s Survival Formula

They must:

• Beat Richards Bay
• Hope Pirates defeat Orbit College

If that happens, Orbit would fall below Magesi and face automatic relegation.

Magesi could even avoid the play-offs completely if Marumo Gallants lose heavily enough against Stellenbosch.

Orbit College Under Massive Pressure

Orbit College face arguably the toughest assignment of all.

Not only are they battling relegation, but they must also stop a title-chasing Pirates side desperate for victory.

The pressure surrounding the match could make it one of the season’s defining fixtures.

Chippa United Not Completely Safe Yet

Although Chippa United are slightly better positioned, they are not mathematically safe.

Worst-Case Scenario for Chippa

They could still fall into trouble if:

• Orbit College and Gallants both collect points
• Chippa lose heavily to Kaizer Chiefs

However, their superior position means survival remains likely.

Why This Final Day Matters Financially

The outcome of Saturday’s fixtures could have major financial consequences for clubs.

Potential Financial Impact

For many clubs, the results could shape recruitment budgets and long-term planning for next season.

Key Fixtures to Watch

Betway Premiership Final-Day Matches

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What must Orlando Pirates do to win the league?

Pirates must defeat Orbit College.

Can Mamelodi Sundowns still win the title?

Yes. Sundowns win the league if Pirates fail to win.

Which teams are fighting relegation?

The main clubs involved are:

• Magesi FC
• Orbit College
• Marumo Gallants
• Chippa United

Which teams already qualified for the MTN8?

Seven teams have already qualified, with only one place still available.

Why is the final day so important?

The final round will decide the league champion, MTN8 participants, and relegation outcomes.

Final Thoughts

The final day of the Betway Premiership season promises intense drama across South African football.

From Orlando Pirates chasing a historic championship to clubs desperately fighting relegation survival, every goal could change the fate of multiple teams.

With league glory, financial rewards, and top-flight survival all at stake, Saturday could become one of the most memorable finales in PSL history.

Former Brighton and Al Ahly Forward Could Return to South African Football After Vietnam Exit

Percy Tau could be heading back to South African football after officially parting ways with Vietnamese club Nam Dinh FC, sparking major speculation over his next destination.

The experienced Bafana Bafana international leaves the club as a free agent alongside former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Njabulo Blom, creating fresh transfer discussion ahead of the new Betway Premiership season.

At 32 years old, Tau remains one of the most recognised South African footballers of his generation, and his availability is expected to attract interest from clubs both locally and abroad.

Percy Tau’s Exit From Nam Dinh Confirmed

Tau joined Nam Dinh FC at the start of the season following his departure from Qatar SC.

Although his numbers were modest, the forward still contributed:

Despite flashes of quality, the club has now released him, making him available on a free transfer.

The decision immediately triggered debate among South African football fans about whether Tau could finally make a high-profile return to the PSL.

Kaizer Chiefs Linked Again With Percy Tau

One club repeatedly linked with Tau is Kaizer Chiefs.

The Glamour Boys have long been associated with interest in the former Mamelodi Sundowns star, especially as the club continues rebuilding its squad with a mixture of youth and experienced players.

Why Chiefs Could Be Interested

Tau would offer several advantages:

• International experience
• Leadership qualities
• Creativity in attack
• Big-match experience
• CAF competition pedigree
• Commercial and marketing value

His arrival could also boost fan excitement and commercial interest around the Betway Premiership.

However, salary expectations may remain one of the biggest obstacles for local clubs.

Percy Tau’s Journey Through International Football

Tau’s football career remains one of the most successful international journeys by a South African player in recent years.

Career Timeline

Tau rose to international prominence after dominating South African football with Sundowns before earning a move to the English Premier League.

Brighton Move Elevated Tau’s Global Profile

Tau’s transfer to Brighton & Hove Albion was considered a landmark moment for South African football.

Although work permit challenges and squad competition limited his opportunities in England, his performances in Belgium helped build his international reputation.

His spell with Royale Union Saint-Gilloise was especially impressive and played a major role in raising his European profile.

Success With Pitso Mosimane at Al Ahly

Tau later reunited with former Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane at Al Ahly.

During his time in Egypt, he won several major trophies, including:

• CAF Champions League titles
• Egyptian league honours
• Domestic cup competitions

Although his performances divided opinion at times, Tau remained an important figure within one of Africa’s biggest football clubs.

Why a PSL Return Would Be Huge for South African Football

A return by Tau to the Betway Premiership would likely become one of the league’s biggest transfer stories in years.

Potential Benefits for the PSL

The PSL has increasingly focused on attracting experienced stars capable of raising the league’s global profile.

What Happens Next for Percy Tau?

Tau still faces several possible career options.

Potential Destinations

1. Return to the PSL

A move to either Kaizer Chiefs or even a reunion with Mamelodi Sundowns could emerge.

2. Stay in Asia

Asian leagues may still offer financially attractive contracts for experienced international players.

3. Move to Another African Club

North African clubs could also remain interested given Tau’s CAF experience.

Bafana Bafana Future Uncertain

Tau’s national team role has reduced significantly since the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Although he helped Bafana Bafana secure third place at AFCON, he has since been used sparingly by coach Hugo Broos.

Reports suggest Tau is not expected to be included in South Africa’s final 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.

Njabulo Blom Also Leaves Nam Dinh

Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Njabulo Blom also exits the Vietnamese club.

Blom remains highly regarded for his versatility and defensive work rate, and his availability could attract interest from several PSL clubs ahead of the transfer window.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which club has Percy Tau left?

Percy Tau has left Nam Dinh FC.

Is Percy Tau now a free agent?

Yes. Tau has reportedly been released and is available as a free agent.

Which PSL club is linked with Tau?

Kaizer Chiefs has been linked with the player previously.

How old is Percy Tau?

Tau is currently 32 years old.

Will Tau play at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Reports suggest he is unlikely to be included in the final Bafana Bafana squad.

Final Thoughts

The departure of Percy Tau from Nam Dinh FC could open the door for one of the most talked-about transfers in South African football.

While questions remain around salary expectations and long-term plans, Tau’s experience, quality, and international reputation would still make him one of the most valuable attacking players available on the market.

Whether he returns to the PSL or continues abroad, his next move is expected to attract major attention from supporters across Africa.