Ivory Coast legend Yaya Toure has etched his name into the history books, becoming the first African head coach to guide a team into the UEFA Champions League league phase.The 43-year-old achieved the feat on Wednesday night as his Slovan Bratislava side secured a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Slovenian champions NK Celje, progressing 3-2 on aggregate.Slovan Bratislava, who had drawn the first leg 1-1 at home, travelled to Celje knowing they needed a result to keep their European dream alive.They took the lead against the run of play in the 18th minute when Andra porar latched onto a long ball and coolly lobbed the goalkeeper.Celje fought back and were awarded a penalty just before half-time, which Svit elar converted to level the scores. The hosts pushed for a winner in the second half and came agonisingly close when Yaya Dukuly’s effort struck the post.With the tie heading for penalties, Slovan snatched victory in the 100th minute when Panamanian midfielder Cristian Martnez scored the decisive goal, sparking wild celebrations on the bench and securing Toure’s place in the history books.Toure was appointed head coach of the Slovak champions in June 2026, signing a three-year deal in his first managerial role. He left his position as assistant coach of the Saudi Arabia national team to take on the challenge.The former Manchester City and Barcelona midfielder, who won three Premier League titles and the Champions League during his playing career, has made an immediate impact. His Slovan side have won five of their six competitive matches under his guidance.Toure’s achievement marks a significant milestone for African football. While several African players have enjoyed illustrious careers in the Champions League, no African coach had previously led a team into the league phase of the competition.Slovan Bratislava will now compete in the Champions League league phase for only the second time in their history, having previously featured in the 2024-25 edition. They will discover their opponents in Thursday’s draw.
Source link
Yaya Toure becomes first African coach to lead a team into Champions League League Phase
