- Banda has injured right adductor tendon on Aug. 16
- Orlando’s leading scorer had eight goals
- Was MVP of last year’s NWSL championship final
Orlando Pride announced that star forward Barbra Banda has been placed on the season-ending Injury list after sustaining a full thickness avulsion of her right adductor longus tendon. The injury occurred during the team’s match against Kansas City Current on Aug. 16.
The Zambian international striker has been a dominant offensive force for Orlando, netting eight goals in 17 appearances this season for the Pride, who currently sit at 8-4-5 with 28 points in the NWSL standings.
“We are devastated to announce Barbra Banda has been placed on the Season Ending Injury list following the soft-tissue injury she sustained during our recent match against Kansas City Current,” said Haley Carter, Pride VP of soccer operations and sporting director. “Barbra has been instrumental to our success and losing a player of her caliber is heartbreaking for the entire organization.
“We are committed 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 know she will approach her rehabilitation with the same determination and professionalism she brings to everything she does.”
Banda’s absence creates a significant void in Orlando’s attack as they push toward the NWSL playoffs. Since joining the Pride, the 25-year-old forward has established herself as one of the league’s premier goalscorers, with 25 goals and seven assists in just 41 games while also earning two Ballon d’Or nominations.
Banda will work with Orlando Pride’s medical team and partners at Orlando Health to develop a comprehensive recovery and rehabilitation program.
