Dreams FC Overtake Hearts and Kotoko as Ghana’s highest-ranked club in latest CAF rankings

Soccer team posing for a group photo on the field, players in neon green kits with one finger raised, blue-jersey goalkeeper on the left.

By Jamaldeen Wiayuka August 6, 2026

Dreams FC have become Ghana’s highest-ranked club in the latest Confederation of African Football (CAF) club rankings, marking a significant milestone for the emerging Premier League side as traditional powerhouses Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko miss out on the continental list.

The Dawu-based club moved into 32nd place in CAF’s latest rankings ahead of the 2026/27 season, following an impressive run in African competitions, particularly their historic campaign in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Dreams FC’s performances on the continental stage have earned them valuable ranking points, making them the country’s highest-rated club and reflecting their rapid rise in African football. Their run in the Confederation Cup saw them compete against some of the continent’s most established teams, enhancing both the club’s profile and Ghana’s reputation in inter-club competitions.

In contrast, Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko, Ghana’s two most successful and widely supported clubs are absent from the latest rankings, underlining their recent struggles to make a lasting impact in CAF competitions.

Both clubs boast proud histories on the continent. Asante Kotoko remain Ghana’s most successful club in CAF competitions, having won the African Champions Cup twice, while Hearts of Oak lifted the CAF Champions League trophy in 2000. However, inconsistent domestic performances and limited appearances in recent continental tournaments have affected their standing.

Medeama SC are the only other Ghanaian club included in the rankings, placing 54th after their recent participation in CAF competitions.

The latest rankings highlight a changing landscape in Ghanaian football, with newer clubs making significant strides while some of the country’s traditional giants seek to reclaim their place among Africa’s elite.

Across the continent, South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns top the rankings with 73 points, replacing Egypt’s Al Ahly, who are second on 66 points. Tunisia’s Espérance Sportive de Tunis, Morocco’s RS Berkane and Algeria’s USM Alger complete the top five.

For Ghana, Dreams FC’s achievement offers a positive sign of growing competitiveness on the continental stage. It also serves as encouragement for clubs across the country to strengthen their squads, improve infrastructure and maintain regular participation in CAF competitions.

With Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko absent from the latest rankings, Dreams FC and Medeama SC now carry Ghana’s hopes on CAF’s club ranking table.