The two-time African champions received a bye in the first qualifying round of the 2026/27 edition. South African club Mamelodi Sundowns are likely to launch their defence of the CAF Champions League in Angola against Wiliete after the qualifying draws were made in Cairo on Thursday. The two-time African champions received a bye in the first qualifying round of the 2026/27 edition and will face Wiliete of Angola or Foresters from the Seychelles. Gilberto was rarely used after joining South African club Orlando Pirates and joins Wiliete after playing for Luanda outfit Petro. Sundowns and Esperance are among nine winners of the Champions League — formerly the African Cup of Champions Clubs — chasing the six-million-dollar first prize.