Indian football stands on the brink of a historic breakthrough as Yohaan Benjamin, a graduate of Minerva Academy, is set to become the first-ever Indian footballer to feature in the UEFA Youth League — Europe’s most prestigious youth competition.
The 18-year-old forward, who currently plays for NK Bravo U19 in Slovenia, has been officially named in the club’s squad for their upcoming UEFA Youth League fixtures against former champions FC Porto on October 22 and November 5, 2025. This remarkable achievement marks a defining moment not just for Yohaan but for the entire Indian football ecosystem.
Born and trained in India, Yohaan Benjamin is a proud product of Minerva Academy Football Club, India’s most successful youth football institution known for producing international-level talent. His journey from the fields of Mohali to the floodlit European stadiums is a living example of Minerva’s global football vision — to create world-class players capable of competing on the grandest stages.
Yohaan’s rise in European football has been nothing short of phenomenal. Competing in the Slovenian U19 League, he has delivered standout performances — including a brace against NK Fuzinar U19 and a decisive winner against NK Krka U19. His sharp movement, clinical finishing, and mature tactical awareness have quickly earned him recognition among Europe’s top youth scouts and coaches.
With his inclusion in the UEFA Youth League, Yohaan Benjamin becomes a trailblazer for Indian footballers in Europe. His participation in a competition that features the academies of elite clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester City, Bayern Munich, and PSG showcases how far Indian football has come in terms of player development and international competitiveness.
Officials from NK Bravo have lauded Yohaan’s discipline, professionalism, and seamless adaptation to European football’s technical and tactical intensity. His performances have been described as “exceptional” — highlighting not only his skill but also his mental toughness, a hallmark of the Minerva Academy system.
Minerva Academy, based in Mohali, Punjab, has become a beacon of youth football excellence in India. Established by Ranjit Bajaj, the Academy has produced more than 240 international players, including India internationals Jeakson Singh, Anwar Ali, and Himanshu Jangra.
Having won India’s I-League (2017–18) and multiple international youth titles — including the Gothia Cup (Sweden), Dana Cup (Denmark), and Norway Cup (Oslo) — Minerva has proven that Indian football talent can thrive globally. Yohaan’s success is a direct reflection of that legacy.
Yohaan Benjamin’s UEFA Youth League debut represents a new chapter for Indian football in Europe. His journey inspires a generation of young players across India to dream beyond borders — to see Europe not as a distant fantasy but as a reachable reality through hard work, structure, and the right training environment.
As Yohaan prepares to take the field against FC Porto, he carries with him not only the hopes of a billion football fans but also the spirit and ethos of Minerva Academy — discipline, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
Yohaan’s story stands as proof that Indian footballers can compete at the highest levels internationally. His inclusion in the UEFA Youth League sends a powerful message: the global football map now has a proud place for India.
As the spotlight shines on him in Slovenia, Yohaan Benjamin carries the tricolor in spirit — reminding the world that Indian talent can dream, deliver, and dominate.