Skipper of Zambia’s Copper Queens, Barbra Banda, has shared her excitement after being enlisted by France Football on Wednesday as a part of the 30 female nominees for the 2024 Ballon d’Or award.
Banda, who moved from Shanghai Shengli Fc to Orlando Pride as the second most expensive female transfer ($740,000) ever in the ongoing season, has been in fine goalscoring form.
The forward has scored 12 times across 14 league games this term, and has provided five assists in that same period to add gloss to a strong debut season.
Her superb goalscoring prowess was unleashed at the just-ended Paris Olympic Games, with the forward scoring four times in three games, including a hat-trick against Australia.
The 24-year-old has played a starring role for club and country, which according to France football, deserves recognition and acknowledgment.
“I am very excited to get my first nomination for the Ballon d’Or,” she wrote on X.
“This is not possible without the hard work of my teammates at the club and national team, plus my coaches and, of course, each and every one of you support my journey,” she added.
I am very excited to get my first nomination for the Ballon D'or.
This is not possible without the hard work of my teammates at club and national team plus my coaches and of course each and every one of you support my journey. #BB11 #BlessedChild #BallonDor pic.twitter.com/wLyCCyrNjg
— Barbra Banda (@BarbraBanda11) September 4, 2024
Banda together with Malawi and Lyon’s Tabitha Chawinga, have the opportunity to make history by making the podium in the Women’s category of the award.
The winner of the award will be announced at the awards gala on October 28.
By Andrews Sefa Bamfo
