40 Facts About Barbra Banda

Barbra Banda is a name that resonates with excellence in women's football. Born in Lusaka, Zambia, her journey from street football to international stardom is nothing short of inspiring. Here are 40 fascinating facts about this remarkable athlete.

Early Life and Beginnings

Barbra Banda's story begins in the bustling streets of Lusaka, where her passion for football took root.

1. Birth and Early Life: Born on March 20, 2000, in Lusaka, Zambia, Banda started playing football at the age of seven, inspired by her father, a football enthusiast.

2. Street Football: Banda honed her skills playing street football, a practice initially frowned upon for girls in her community. Her determination soon made her a standout player.

3. Academy Days: She played with boys at her local academy due to the absence of a girls' team. This early exposure helped her develop robust skills.

4. Family Support: Despite initial concerns about her focus on football affecting her schooling, Banda balanced both. She sometimes sneaked out to play, ensuring her parents thought she was just going outside.

Boxing Career

Before fully committing to football, Banda explored another sport that would shape her discipline and perseverance.

5. Boxing Career: Inspired by Zambian professional boxer Catherine Phiri, Banda started boxing at 14. She turned professional after winning all five of her amateur bouts.

6. Professional Boxing Matches: Banda competed in five professional boxing matches, winning each one before deciding to focus solely on football.

Football Career Milestones

Banda's football career is marked by numerous milestones that highlight her exceptional talent and dedication.

7. Football Debut: On March 6, 2016, Banda made her senior team debut in a Women's Africa Cup of Nations qualification match against Namibia.

8. International Career: Representing Zambia internationally since 2016, she is known for her exceptional goal-scoring abilities.

9. Olympic Debut: In 2020, Banda captained the Zambian squad at the Tokyo Olympics, marking Zambia's first appearance in an international tournament.

10. Hat Tricks: During the Tokyo Olympics, Banda scored three hat tricks, becoming the first woman to achieve this feat in Olympic history.

11. Olympic Hat Tricks: In the first group stage match against the Netherlands, Banda scored a hat trick, contributing to Zambia's 3-10 loss. In the second group match against China, she scored another hat trick, helping the match end in a 4-4 draw.

Record-Breaking Achievements

Banda's record-breaking performances have cemented her place in football history.

12. African Top Scorer: Banda is Africa's all-time top scorer in Olympic football history, with a total of 10 goals in the Olympics.

13. 2022 COSAFA Cup: In 2022, Banda led Zambia to win the COSAFA Women's Cup, earning the Golden Ball with ten goals.

14. 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup: In June 2023, Banda was named to the Zambian squad for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

15. Upset Against Germany: On July 7, 2023, Banda scored two goals, including the game-winner in the 12th minute of injury time, leading Zambia to a 3-2 upset against #2 FIFA-ranked Germany.

16. First World Cup Goal: Later that month, on July 31, Banda scored Zambia's first World Cup goal against Costa Rica, marking the 1,000th goal in Women's World Cup history.

Club Career and Impact

Banda's club career has been equally impressive, with significant contributions to her teams.

17. Transfer to Orlando Pride: In March 2024, Banda signed with the Orlando Pride in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) for the second-highest transfer fee in women's football history, $740,000.

18. NWSL Impact: Since joining the Orlando Pride, Banda has made an instant impact, scoring 12 goals in 14 league matches.

19. First Player to Score 10 Goals in 10 Matches: This season, Banda became the first player in NWSL history to score 10 goals in 10 appearances.

20. Record-Setting Season: The Orlando Pride has had a record-setting season with Banda's contributions, remaining undefeated through the first 18 matches.

Personal Life and Inspirations

Beyond her professional achievements, Banda's personal life and inspirations offer a glimpse into her character.

21. Nomination for Women’s Ballon d’Or: In September 2024, Banda was nominated for the prestigious 2024 Women’s Ballon d’Or.

22. Paris 2024 Olympics: Banda was named to her second Olympic roster, representing Zambia at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she scored four goals and an assist.

23. Career Olympic Goals: Banda’s career Olympic goal total currently sits at 10, tied for fourth in career Olympic goal scoring history.

24. Barbra Banda Foundation: In 2021, Banda launched the Barbra Banda Foundation to support programs that promote empowerment for women and girls.

25. Annual Football Tournament: The foundation co-hosts an annual football tournament to provide opportunities for young girls and boys in Zambia.

26. Common Goal Pledge: In 2019, Banda joined Common Goal, pledging at least 1% of her salary to a collective fund that supports football charities around the world.

27. Personal Life: Banda admires Portuguese men’s footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and legendary footballer Marta.

28. Boxing Inspiration: Catherine Phiri, a Zambian professional boxer, inspired Banda to take up boxing.

29. Football Idol: Growing up, Banda was inspired by football legends like Marta.

30. Transfer Fee Impact: Despite the high transfer fee, Banda has stated that it did not affect her focus.

Legacy and Recognition

Banda's legacy continues to grow as she receives recognition from peers and coaches alike.

31. Legacy Aspirations: Banda aspires to be recognized as one of the greatest footballers globally.

32. Recognition by Coaches: Emma Hayes, the head coach of the United States women’s national team, has described Banda as the most-in-form striker in world football.

33. Additional Facts: Banda has participated in five professional boxing matches, winning each one before shifting her focus to football.

34. Olympic History: At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Banda made history by becoming the first player — man or woman — to score three goals in back-to-back games.

35. Street Football Legacy: Banda’s determination and talent have inspired a whole generation of young women to take up the sport.

36. Club Career: Before joining Orlando Pride, Banda played for Shanghai Shengli in the Chinese Women’s Super League.

37. Career Statistics: Banda has scored 41 career goals across 52 career games in Shanghai.

38. NWSL Scoring Records: Banda is on pace to shatter multiple NWSL scoring records.

39. Assist Contributions: Banda’s assist contributions are also noteworthy, with five assists this season.

40. Global Impact: Barbra Banda’s impact extends beyond her football career. She is a role model for young girls and women around the world.

Banda's Impact on and off the Field

Barbra Banda's journey from the streets of Lusaka to international stardom is nothing short of inspiring. Her goal-scoring prowess and record-breaking feats have made her a household name in women's football. Beyond her athletic achievements, Banda's commitment to social causes through the Barbra Banda Foundation showcases her dedication to empowering women and girls in Zambia. Her influence extends beyond the pitch, making her a role model for aspiring athletes worldwide. With her recent nomination for the Women’s Ballon d’Or and her impactful performances in the NWSL and Olympics, Banda's legacy continues to grow. She’s not just breaking records; she’s breaking barriers, proving that with determination and passion, anything is possible. Her story is a testament to the power of sport in changing lives and inspiring future generations.