By Victor Kanayo
Nigeria will in the 2025/26 season retain four Confederation of African Football (CAF) continental slots.
Africa’s most populous nation maintained its number in the continent despite group stage exit of remaining club, Enyimba FC, in the Confederation Cup.
Nigeria’s continued presence among the top 12 nations in the CAF coefficient rankings was confirmed after Stade Malien also suffered elimination from the Confederation Cup.
Their 0-1 defeat to CD Lunda placed them at the bottom of Group B with just four points, while Enyimba finished third in Group D with five points.
The performance of these two clubs had significant implications for their respective countries.
Nigeria’s position at 12th on the CAF coefficient table guarantees them four continental slots (two in the CAF Champions League and two in the CAF Confederation Cup).
Mali’s fall to 13th, due to Stade Malien’s performance, means they will only have two slots.
Overall, the top 12 countries will produce four teams for continental football next season.
