Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs in new CAF Rankings

Kaizer Chiefs feature in the latest CAF Club Rankings. They are alongside Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates ahead of the 2026/27 continental campaign.

Sundowns remain South Africa’s highest-ranked club. The reigning CAF Champions League winners occupy top spot on the continent with 73 points. The Brazilians sit seven points clear of Egyptian giants Al Ahly, who are second on 66 points.

ORLANDO PIRATES AND KAIZER CHIEFS TRAIL

Orlando Pirates are South Africa’s second-highest ranked club. The Buccaneers sit 19th on the continent with 20 points. This is despite suffering a second preliminary round exit in last season’s CAF Champions League.

Stellenbosch FC occupy 21st place with 17 points after building their continental ranking through recent appearances in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Kaizer Chiefs are ranked 38th with 5 points. The Amakhosi boosted their CAF coefficient after returning to continental football last season and reaching the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup.

Further down the rankings, Marumo Gallants are 37th with 6 points, while Sekhukhune United sit 56th on 3 points. AmaZulu FC are ranked 69th with 2 points, and SuperSport United occupy 71st place on 1.5 points.

SUNDOWNS SET THE BENCHMARK

The rankings reflect performances over recent CAF inter-club competitions and determine seedings for future continental draws.

For Mamelodi Sundowns, top spot reinforces their status as Africa’s team to beat heading into another CAF Champions League campaign.

Orlando Pirates will aim to climb back up the rankings after an early continental exit last season, while Kaizer Chiefs have an opportunity to improve their position in the CAF Confederation Cup this season.

With Sundowns, Pirates and Chiefs all competing in CAF competitions during the 2026/27 campaign, South African clubs have another chance to strengthen their rankings and enhance the country’s standing on the continent.

DO YOU EXPECT ONE OF THESE TEAMS TO BECOME CHAMPIONS?

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