Nigerian Clubs Set for CAF Campaigns as Continental Action Begins in September

Nigeria's representatives in this season's CAF interclub competitions will begin their continental journeys in September as they aim to make a strong impression against Africa's top sides.

League champions Rangers and Rivers United are set to fly the country's flag in the CAF Champions League after securing qualification through their domestic performances.

Meanwhile, Shooting Stars and the winners of this year's President Federation Cup will represent Nigeria in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The identity of the final Confederation Cup representative will be confirmed after the President Federation Cup final, where Nasarawa United will face Ikorodu City.

The highly anticipated encounter is scheduled to take place on July 11 at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba.

According to the CAF calendar, the opening preliminary round of both the Champions League and Confederation Cup will be played between September 4 and 6. The return legs are expected to follow from September 11 to 13.

Teams that progress will advance to the second preliminary round, with the first-leg fixtures slated for October 16 to 18 and the decisive return matches taking place between October 23 and 25.

The successful clubs from those rounds will earn places in the lucrative group stage, which is expected to kick off toward the end of November.

With four Nigerian clubs preparing for continental assignments, supporters will be hoping they can produce impressive performances and restore the country's reputation in African club football after several difficult campaigns in recent seasons.