Sundowns dislodge Al Ahly as Africa’s top club as Kaizer Chiefs trail Gallants

A new era has dawned in African club football as Mamelodi Sundowns have officially ended Al Ahly’s long-standing reign at the summit of the continent’s rankings.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) released its latest list ahead of the 2026/27 season, confirming the South African giants as the new number one club.

This significant shift in the hierarchy comes after Sundowns’ consistently impressive performances in continental competitions. The Pretoria-based club amassed 73 ranking points, pushing the Egyptian powerhouse into second place with 66 points. For much of the last decade, Al Ahly had been the undisputed benchmark for success in Africa.

Why Sundowns are top dogs in Africa

Sundowns’ ascent to the top is a testament to their growing influence, fueled by significant investment, a formidable squad, and deep runs in the CAF Champions League. This achievement solidifies their status as a dominant force in both domestic and international football.

The top five is rounded out by other continental heavyweights. Tunisia’s Esperance Sportive de Tunis holds the third position with 58 points, followed by Moroccan side RS Berkane in fourth. Algerian giants USM Alger complete the elite group in fifth place.

Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates are the second highest ranked South African club in Africa, sitting at position 19 with 20 points, having reached the semi-final in 2025 before exiting at the second preliminary round last season.

Kaizer Chiefs trail Marumo Gallants

Pirates have three points more than Stellenbosch, ranked 21^st in Africa, following their recent impressive performances in the CAF Confederation Cup, which include a semi-final appearance in 2024-25.

Marumo Gallants are the fourth best South African club in position 37 with six points, one more than 38^th-placed Kaizer Chiefs (five points), who returned to continental football last season and reached the Confederation Cup group stage.

Sekhukhune United at position 56 with three points, AmaZulu, 69^th with two points and SuperSport United (Siwelele FC) in 71^st position with 1.5 points round of the South African clubs in the top 79.