The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has introduced new registration guidelines for players joining African clubs ahead of the group stages of the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup.
Clubs can register new players between January 1–31, 2026, aligning with the January transfer window. However, CAF has clarified that for any new signings to be eligible during this period, their registration must be completed at least 72 hours before kickoff.
The group stage draw, held in Johannesburg, features 16 top clubs, including Nigeria’s Rivers United, competing for continental glory in the Champions League. 
Group Stage Fixtures:
• Matchday 1: Nov 21–23
• Matchday 2: Nov 28–30
• Matchday 3: Jan 23–25
• Matchday 4: Jan 30–Feb 1
• Matchday 5: Feb 6–8
• Matchday 6: Feb 13–15
Rivers United stands tall as Nigeria’s representative in this prestigious tournament