By Aaron Hammond 
Ivorian football legend Yaya Touré has broken new ground by becoming the first-ever African head coach to guide a club into the UEFA Champions League league phase. Taking charge of Slovakian powerhouse Slovan Bratislava, the former Manchester City midfield general proved that his tactical brain matches his legendary playing career.
Qualification came down to a nail-biting playoff clash against Slovenian side NK Celje. After a 1-1 first-leg draw, the return fixture stretched into extra time as both teams fought tooth and nail for European glory. Super-sub Cristian Martínez popped up in the 100th minute to chip home a brilliant winner, sealing a 3-2 aggregate victory.
Transitioning from a star player who won the Champions League with Barcelona to a successful dugout boss is never easy. Yet Touré has achieved this monumental milestone during his very first senior managerial assignment. His success opens major doors for African coaches aiming to break barriers at the very highest levels of European club football.
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