Barbra Banda, at just 24 years old, has ascended to the throne of African football royalty by claiming the title of 2024 CAF Women’s Player of the Year. Her extraordinary performances throughout the year have placed her at the pinnacle of global football, making her a symbol of excellence, resilience, and African pride.
A Historic Year in the United States NWSL Dominance
Barbra’s career reached new heights with her move to Orlando Pride in the United States’ National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The highly competitive league provided the perfect stage for her talent to shine. With blistering pace, clinical finishing, and the ability to consistently outmaneuver defenders, she ended the season with 17 goals, finishing second in the NWSL Golden Boot race behind Malawi’s Temwa Chawinga.
The true testament to her abilities came in the high-pressure moments. A decisive strike in the NWSL Championship final against Washington Spirit secured a 1-0 victory for Orlando Pride, earning them their first-ever league title. This goal not only secured her place as one of the league’s top performers but also earned her the prestigious Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for the 2024 season.
Olympic Greatness Breaking Records on the World Stage
Barbra’s stellar form was not limited to club football. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, she delivered a series of breathtaking performances, leading Zambia’s Copper Queens to the global stage. The highlight came during Zambia’s group-stage match against Australia, where Barbra scored an astonishing first-half hat-trick, marking her third Olympic hat-trick and setting an all-time record in the competition.
With 10 goals across two Olympic Games (Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024), she now holds the title of Africa’s leading Olympic scorer, a remarkable feat that underscores her consistency and ability to rise to the occasion on football’s biggest stages.
Trailblazing Achievements and Global Recognition
Barbra’s 2024 achievements were recognized globally with her inclusion in the prestigious FIFPRO Women’s World 11. This honor marked the first time an African player had been named among the best in the world, a significant milestone for African football and a testament to her exceptional performances. Her inclusion was more than just a personal achievement; it was a triumph for Zambia and the entire African continent.
The Journey From Lusaka to the World
Barbra’s rise to global prominence is a story of determination, talent, and resilience. Born in Lusaka, Zambia, her journey began on the dusty streets where she played football barefoot with the boys. With the support of her family, she pursued her dreams despite societal challenges and limited opportunities for women in sport.
Her professional career began at Zambia’s Green Buffaloes Women’s FC, where her standout performances quickly caught the eye of scouts. In 2018, she made a bold move to EDF Logroño in Spain’s top-tier league, facing cultural and competitive challenges, yet she thrived. A subsequent move to Shanghai Shengli in the Chinese Women’s Super League in 2020 further cemented her place among the best.
Her true breakthrough, however, came on the international stage. From record-breaking hat-tricks at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics to her legendary performances in Paris 2024, Barbra has consistently proven her ability to shine when the stakes are highest.
A Symbol of Inspiration and Hope
Barbra’s impact goes far beyond the football field. She has become a beacon of hope and a symbol of resilience for young girls across Africa. In a continent where opportunities for women’s football are still limited, her achievements show that with hard work, determination, and belief, greatness is within reach. Off the pitch, she continues to advocate for the development of women’s football in Zambia and beyond, urging investments in grassroots programs to provide young players with opportunities to follow in her footsteps.
The Road Ahead: A Legacy in the Making
At just 24 years old, Barbra’s journey is far from over. With the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup on the horizon, the focus will now shift to leading Zambia to even greater success on the world stage. Barbra’s story also brings attention to the growth of women’s football in Africa, a continent brimming with world-class talent that deserves recognition and investment.
Barbra Banda’s rise from the streets of Lusaka to global footballing prominence embodies the true spirit of African excellence. Her recognition as the 2024 CAF Women’s Player of the Year is not just a personal triumph, but a celebration of African football’s growing prominence on the world stage. Her legacy is already etched in football history, but the best is yet to come. She remains a trailblazer, a leader, and an inspiration to countless aspiring athletes.
Barbra Banda wears the crown of African football queen, not just for her records, awards, or goals, but for the pride, hope, and dreams she represents for Zambia, Africa, and the world.
