Slovan Bratislava manager Yaya Toure has urged his players to show courage, passion and character when they face defending champions Paris Saint-Germain in their Champions League opener on Wednesday.
The Slovakian champions face a daunting assignment at the Parc des Princes, where they will take on a PSG side packed with world-class talent.
Slovan secured their place in the Champions League league phase after navigating a demanding qualifying campaign, overcoming Iberia Tbilisi, Mjallby and Celje.
For Toure, the match represents another significant milestone in his coaching career. The former Barcelona and Manchester City midfielder is set to become the first African manager to lead a team in the Champions League.
However, the Ivorian knows the challenge awaiting his side in Paris will be enormous, and he has warned his players they must be prepared to endure difficult periods during the encounter.
Toure demands courage and passion
Toure wants Slovan to embrace the challenge rather than be intimidated by the occasion.
The former Ivory Coast international has called on his players to demonstrate the same fighting spirit that helped them navigate qualifying if they are to have any chance of competing with PSG.
The French champions enter the fixture as overwhelming favourites, having established themselves among Europe’s elite and lifted the Champions League trophy last season.
For Slovan, the priority will be to remain organised, disciplined and mentally strong while attempting to take advantage of any opportunities that come their way.
Toure’s appointment has already generated significant interest, given his status as one of Africa’s most decorated former players. Now, his first Champions League match as a manager provides him with an opportunity to make history on one of European football’s biggest stages.
But the former midfielder knows there will be little room for error against PSG.
With the pressure expected to be intense at the Parc des Princes, Toure’s message to his players is clear: they must be ready to suffer, fight and show courage if they are to emerge from Paris with anything to celebrate.
