Zambia: Barbra Banda's meteoric rise to the top of world women's football

At 24, Barbra Banda is establishing herself as one of the key figures in global women’s football. Already a star after the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games, the Zambian forward continues to make history with her move to Orlando Pride, where she showcases her incredible talent. With impressive NWSL stats and national team exploits, Banda is redefining expectations around African women’s football.

A historic transfer and a brilliant debut
Barbra Banda, already well known for her impressive performances at the Tokyo Olympics and the 2023 World Cup, saw her star shine even brighter when Orlando Pride paid $740,000 (around £581,000) to sign her in March 2024. That fee makes her the second most expensive player in the history of women's football, just behind her compatriot Racheal Kundananji.

The move is not only a recognition of her talent, but also a testament to the trust Orlando Pride have in her. And Banda hasn’t disappointed them. Joining the team in the middle of the regular season of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), the premier women’s soccer league in the United States, Banda quickly made her mark, scoring 13 goals, moving her into second place on the league’s all-time leading scorer list.

Her ability to quickly adapt to a new league and establish herself among the best players is impressive. It's no surprise to those following her journey since the 2021 Olympics, where Banda made history by becoming the first player to score back-to-back hat-tricks in the competition.

A legend in the making
Banda is not just shining at club level. At Paris 2024, she further demonstrated her talent by scoring four goals for Zambia, including a hat-trick against Australia. These goals made her the all-time leading African scorer at the Olympic Games, for both men and women, with a total of 10 goals.

For Banda, every appearance in the Zambian jersey is a special moment. “Wearing the Zambian jersey means a lot to me,” she says. “Scoring another hat-trick at the Olympics was a great moment.” Her commitment to her country and her roots is also evident in her decision to set up a charity in Zambia, aimed at providing opportunities for young people in her community. She explains: “I have a passion for my community. I want to bring these boys and girls together and give them a chance.”

An icon of the NWSL and beyond
At Orlando Pride, Banda plays alongside women’s soccer legends like Marta, a player she has admired since childhood. For Banda, it’s a dream come true: “I always looked up to Marta growing up, and it’s a dream come true to be able to play with her. She’s always encouraging me, and she’s really embraced me like a little sister.” This bond with the Brazilian legend only strengthens Banda’s confidence on the field.

Despite the huge expectations associated with her historic transfer, Banda assures that it has not affected her. "To be honest, the transfer fee did not bother me. What I wanted was to arrive here and take on this new challenge."

In just 12 games with the Orlando Pride, Banda has scored 12 goals, cementing her reputation as a “relentless goal scorer.” Her ability to position herself, create scoring opportunities, and finish with composure makes her a formidable weapon for her team. Orlando Pride coach Seb Hines has nothing but praise for her: “Barbra knows how to find the right positions and scores incredible goals. She always finds a way.”

American coach Emma Hayes goes even further, saying that Banda is "the best in-form striker in world football right now."

Banda and its lasting impact
Barbra Banda is more than just a footballer; she has become an inspiration, especially to young African women who aspire to follow in her footsteps. Her foundation in Zambia reflects this commitment to using her success to help others. “I don’t feel good seeing children on the streets when I can do something for them,” she says.

With a fierce determination to be the best, Banda is well on her way to leaving an indelible mark on the history of women's football. When asked how she wants to be remembered, her answer is clear: "I want to be the best footballer in the world, so that everyone remembers Barbra Banda."