Jackline Juma makes history as the first woman to coach a men’s team in Kenya’s top flight, but she still faces sexism on the touchline.

Leading FC Talanta into the new Kenyan Premier League (KPL) season, it didn’t take long for Juma to realize that not everyone viewed his appointment as a positive one.

“There were a few words said from the other bench like ‘We don’t play women’s football’,” Juma told BBC Sport Africa, speaking about his second match in charge against Sofapaka.

“And I was like, ‘Oh, okay. But let 90 minutes decide.’

Juma’s team won 1-0 to silence their critics.

“After the match, of course, we didn’t shake hands,” she said.

“Winning three points against a very experienced coach gave me the motivation I needed to continue.”

A Sofapaka official did not respond to a request for comment on the incident.

A 38-year-old mother of two, Juma began coaching more than two decades ago and now holds the Confederation of African Football’s A license, the second highest badge offered on the continent.

She names Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti and Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta as her inspirations in the dugout and aims to implement a dominant possession-based style.

Although she became a trailblazer for other women to follow, at first she did not view her nomination in August through the lens of gender.

“For me, I thought it was normal,” she said.

“It was only when they said it was ancient history that I realized it was important.

“Gender shouldn’t be a barrier. I figured they would judge me based on what I deliver, not because I’m a coach.”