The Orlando Pride`s aspirations for a deep playoff run and their quest for a second consecutive NWSL championship have been severely impacted by a major setback. The club announced on Saturday that their prolific forward, Barbra Banda, will miss the remainder of the 2025 regular season. This unfortunate news comes after she sustained a full thickness avulsion of her right adductor longus tendon. Banda has been an indispensable asset to the team, leading as their top scorer with eight goals netted across 16 games.
“We are profoundly saddened to announce Barbra Banda`s placement on the Season Ending Injury list following the soft-tissue injury she sustained during our recent match against Kansas City Current,” stated Haley Carter, Orlando Pride`s VP of Soccer Operations and Sporting Director.
“Barbra has been instrumental to our success, and losing a player of her caliber is truly heartbreaking for the entire organization. We are unwavering in our commitment to providing her with the highest level of care and support throughout her recovery. Her contributions to this team, both on and off the field, have been immeasurable, and we are confident she will approach her rehabilitation with the same unwavering determination and professionalism she brings to every aspect of her life.”
The injury that has sidelined Banda occurred during the team`s August 16 game against the Kansas City Current, a match that was notably marked by a three-hour delay due to extreme heat conditions.
Banda`s Monumental Impact and Illustrious Accolades
Since her arrival in the league in 2024, Barbra Banda`s electrifying presence has captivated football enthusiasts worldwide. The Zambian international boasts an impressive career record for the club, contributing 25 goals and seven assists over 41 matches. Her remarkable performance earned her numerous accolades, cementing her status as one of the NWSL`s elite players:
- She was named a 2024 NWSL MVP finalist.
- She secured the prestigious NWSL Championship MVP award, playing a pivotal role in leading the Orlando Pride to their inaugural NWSL Championship title.
- She was named to the 2024 NWSL Best XI First Team.
- Beyond the NWSL, Banda`s talent has received global recognition; she has twice been voted BBC`s Women`s Footballer of the Year.
- She recently received her second Ballon d`Or nomination, further highlighting her international standing.
Strengthening the Squad Amidst Challenges
Despite this significant setback with Banda, the Pride recently made strategic moves to bolster their attacking options. They secured the world-record signing of Lizbeth Jacqueline Ovalle. The club successfully negotiated a substantial $1.5 million transfer fee for the highly-touted Mexican international, who has committed to the team through 2027, with a mutual option extending to 2028.
