Zambia’s Barbra Banda won the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year after receiving the highest number of votes from BBC Sport website readers. Banda topped a five-player shortlist based on performances from September 2023 to August 2024. Which was curated by a panel of football experts, including coaches, players, and journalists from around the world.
“I am shocked and surprised to have this award,” Banda, 24, said in an interview with BBC Sport. “I would like to thank everyone who voted for me and all those who have played a role in my career—my family, my national team in Zambia, and especially the Pride team. This award is for all of us.”
Banda’s exceptional year included a standout performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Where she scored four goals for Zambia, including a first-half hat-trick against Australia. Her Olympic achievements helped her become the leading African goalscorer in Olympic history, with a total of 10 goals.
In club football, Banda made a significant impact for Orlando Pride in the 2024 National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season. Despite joining the Pride in March, she netted 13-goals during the regular season and added four more in the playoffs. Including the winning goal in the championship final, securing the Pride’s first-ever NWSL title. Her performances earned her the title of NWSL Most Valuable Player (MVP).
Spain’s Aitana Bonmati of Barcelona finished second in the voting, while Sophia Smith of the USA and Portland Thorns placed-third. The shortlist also featured Norway’s Caroline Graham Hansen and the USA’s Naomi Girma.
Banda’s move to Orlando Pride from Chinese club Shanghai Shengli in March made headlines, as her $740,000 (£581,000) transfer fee made her the second-most expensive signing in women’s football history, behind fellow Zambia teammate Racheal Kundananji.
Reflecting on her success, Banda credited hard work and consistency. “My aim is always to score because I love scoring,” she said. “It all starts with good training sessions, and having great conversations with the coaches and my teammates.”
Banda, ranked 12th in the 2024 Women’s Ballon d’Or, has also overcome significant challenges in her personal journey. A former professional boxer who won all five of her bouts before switching to football, she shared her early struggles with the sport in Zambia. “Growing up in Zambia, it was difficult, especially as a girl. Parents didn’t believe women could play football, but when women’s football started being recognized in Zambia, my mother understood and supported my passion.”
Pride head coach Seb Hines praised Banda’s contributions to the club and African football. Hines said, “It’s great to see Barbra receive recognition for her achievements.” “She’s humble, a great person, and a true team player. Despite all her individual accolades, she always puts the team first.”
Banda’s rise to prominence continues to inspire, marking a milestone in both her career and the future of women’s football in Zambia and beyond.
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