Saint-Eloi Lupopo news

Masandawana are in Group C, a pool considered the toughest given the calibre of teams that will clash there. Another interesting factor that makes the group interesting is the fact that the Tshwane giants will face their former head coach, Rhulani Mokwena, who is in charge of Algeria's MC Alger. Lupopo are set for another trip south, after heartbreakingly eliminating the Sea Robbers in the second preliminary round.

Despite winning just one trophy in the almost full year he has been at Chloorkop, the Portuguese has found his name among the world's best coaches. His nomination could spark some debate given that he lifted only one trophy in almost a year he has been at the helm of Masandawana. Despite limited silverware, the former Esperance tactician has earned global recognition. Cardoso’s inclusion among elite names proves the growing influence of Premier Soccer League clubs on the African continent.

The recognition of a South African footballer by the world football governing body, especially one plying his trade in the Premier Soccer League, proves the quality of the domestic league. Such acknowledgement could show how the PSL has earned respect on the global stage and reinforces the local league's case as one of Africa’s most competitive football competitions.

The Brazilians usually kick off their season in high gear, setting the tone to defend their league title. However, the 2025/26 campaign has lacked authority, even though the team tops the log with just three points. The man at the helm did not shy away from laying his cards on the table, acknowledging how this form has created an uneasy atmosphere within the club.

The Buccaneers reached the semi-final of the annual prestigious continental club competition last season before falling to the eventual champions, Pyramids, who beat the Premier Soccer League champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the final. However, things didn't work out in their favour as they were undone in the last preliminary round and crashed out.

With several new signings still to be properly integrated with the squad, the veteran midfielder has called on the club's supporters to be patient and believes it is only a matter of time until The Brazilians hit the levels they know they are capable of.

The Buccaneers are pursuing a matter in which they are questioning alleged irregularities that occurred during their game against the Congolese side. They are back to learn their fate in Africa after attention on domestic duties following the Champions League elimination. Abdeslam Ouaddou's men had channelled their continental disappointment into a strong push for silverware at home.

The continental draw at the SuperSport studios on Monday threw up a tough group for The Brazilians. Not only do they face a former coach wise in their ways, but they face opposition who have already proved they can beat South African sides. They also have Sundanese club Al-Hilal, who were quarterfinalists last season.

The Soweto giants argue they were not fairly eliminated from the CAF inter-club competition by the Democratic Republic of Congo outfit last weekend. They have since protested the same to the football governing body on the continent, who have in turn demanded an explanation from the Cheminots within five days.

Although they showed strong character and a spirited fight, the Sea Robbers were eliminated from the continental competition. After their continental campaign ended, even after coming so close last season, it means Bucs will only be chasing domestic titles in 2025-26.

There is not much time to rest for the Sea Robbers, as they are back in action for a domestic clash against their Premier Soccer League opponents. After elimination from the CAF Champions League despite fighting hard in the second leg of the preliminary round, it is now time to face another rival in another competition.

The Buccaneers are out of the continent's premier club competition following what some might view as an unlucky exit from the tournament. Their Moroccan coach made a surprise selection of his starting line-up up which sparked debate, and he has come out to justify his choices.

The Sea Robbers were already under pressure after losing the first leg of the second preliminary round, leaving their continental hopes hanging in a thread. However, they can take heart from how they fought at home but fell short of what they needed to progress.