BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The stage is set for Malawi’s representatives in continental football as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed the preliminary round fixtures for the 2025/26 interclub competitions.
TNM Super League defending champions Silver Strikers have been drawn against Elgeco Plus of Madagascar in the first preliminary round of the CAF Champions League.
The Bankers, making their long awaited return to Africa’s elite club competition, will begin their campaign away in Madagascar before hosting the return leg in Lilongwe.
Elgeco Plus, one of the strongest sides in the Malagasy top flight, are seasoned campaigners in CAF competitions, having featured regularly in recent years.
This will be a stern test for Silver, who are aiming to go beyond the preliminary stages something Malawian clubs have historically struggled to achieve.
Meanwhile, Mighty Mukuru Wanderers will fly the Malawian flag in the CAF Confederation Cup, where they have been paired with Jwaneng Galaxy FC of Botswana.
The Botswana champions are currently ranked 39th in Africa according to CAF’s latest club rankings, a testament to their consistency in recent seasons including notable performances in the CAF Champions League.
Wanderers, who do not feature in the top 75 of the rankings, will have the home advantage first, playing at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe before travelling to Botswana for the decisive second leg.
Malawian clubs have often found the going tough in CAF competitions, with early exits being the norm due to factors such as limited budgets, lack of continental exposure, and travel fatigue.
However, both Silver Strikers and Mighty Wanderers are keen to change the narrative this season.
The first leg matches are scheduled for late August, with the return legs to follow in early September.
