Yaya Toure Makes African History as Slovan Bratislava Reach Champions League League Phase

Yaya Toure has made African football history after guiding Slovan Bratislava into the league phase of the UEFA Champions League.

The former Manchester City and Barcelona midfielder achieved the feat on Wednesday as Slovan Bratislava defeated Celje 2-1 in the second leg of their Champions League play-off.

The victory gave the Slovakian side a 3-2 aggregate win and secured their place among the 36 clubs that will compete in the Champions League league phase.

Toure’s achievement is particularly significant as he becomes the first African coach to lead a team into the Champions League league phase under the competition’s current format. It marks an impressive early milestone in his managerial career.

The Ivorian coach celebrated the qualification by praising his players, coaching staff, the club and the supporters for their role in the historic campaign.

“Proud of my players, staff, the club and our fans,” Toure wrote in an Instagram post.

He added: “Proud to be in the Champions League together. Proud to be African. Lots more to do together.”

Toure was appointed Slovan Bratislava head coach in July on a three-year contract. His rapid success has now earned him a place in the Champions League alongside Europe’s leading clubs, with the league phase draw scheduled for Thursday.