Aluoch has been the assistant to Mildred Cheche and together they made history by taking Kenya to the World Cup for the first time.
Junior Starlets assistant coach Ann Aluoch was in high spirits after her side, Mathare United Women FC came from behind to secure a point against Makolanders FC in the Women’s National Super League on November 3rd, 2024. This was Aluoch’s first match on the sidelines for the Slum Girls since returning from the historic FIFA-U17 World Cup in the Dominican Republic.
Speaking to Michezo.Afrika.com after the match last weekend, Aluoch shared how her experience in the World Cup had enriched her understanding of the game. “For me, it means a lot to be among the history-makers of the country. Being part of the technical bench at the World Cup was a fantastic experience. I’ve learned a great deal from it, and the knowledge gained is something we can put in use for the benefit of football in Kenya and my team.”
When asked about the team’s strategy in their final match against Mexico which saw them secure a 2 – 1 victory, Aluoch explained, “In the last match, we had nothing to lose. We just let the players play freely, telling them that whether we win or lose, we must do so with pride because it was our final game.”
Regarding reports linking some of the Junior Starlets players to overseas clubs, she said, “We are aware of such news, but I’m not the right person to discuss it into detail nor share information. When the deals are finalized, then you will know which ones are true.”
On FIFA’s decision to make U-17 Women’s World Cup an annual event and plans for the next tournament, she added, “Our next task is to follow up with our players who are still within the age bracket. We will continue scouting in school’s and league matches. There are players we believe could make the national team and we will engage them on what they need to improve. This way, when they get the call-up, it will be easier for them to gel and blend with the team.”
Aluoch has been the assistant to Mildred Cheche and together they made history by taking Kenya to the World Cup for the first time. The Junior Starlets finished third in their group with three points. North Korea, who were in the same group, went on to win the tournament, while England was eliminated at the semifinals, finishing fourth after losing the third-place match.