Zambia forward Barbra Banda named BBC Women's Footballer of the Year

Zambia and Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda has been voted BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year.

Banda scored four goals for Zambia at the Paris Olympics this summer, including a first-half hat-trick against Australia, to become the leading African goalscorer in Olympic history with 10.

She scored 13 goals for Pride in 2024 National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) regular season, despite only joining in March, and four goals in the playoffs, including the winning goal in the championship final on Saturday as Orlando Pride won their maiden title.

Banda was also named Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the NWSL.

Zambia forward Barbra Banda named BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year

Spain and Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmati came second in the voting, while USA and Portland Thorns forward Sophia Smith finished third.

Banda became the second-most expensive women’s signing in history – behind Zambia team-mate Racheal Kundananji – when she joined Pride from Chinese club Shanghai Shengli $740,000 (£581,000) in March.

“I am shocked and surprised to have this award right by my side,” the 24-year-old told BBC Sport.

“I would like to thank the people who voted and everyone who has played a part in my life and my career – my family, my national team in Zambia and especially the Pride team. It is for everyone.”