By Field Level Media
Sep 14 (Field Level Media) – The Orlando Pride signed star striker Barbra Banda to a new “landmark agreement” through the 2029 season, the club announced on Monday.
Banda, 26, has scored a club-record 16 goals through 20 matches this season. She has tallied 41 goals and 11 assists in 62 appearances across all NWSL competitions since joining the Pride in 2024.
“Barbra is a transformational player whose impact extends far beyond the goals she scores on the field,” team owner and chairman Mark Wilf said. “She represents the ambition, excellence and winning culture we’ve built and want to sustain long-term. Since arriving in Orlando, she has helped elevate our club to new heights and establish us among the world’s premier women’s football organizations. Securing Barbra’s future is a reflection of our commitment to competing for championships year after year and investing in the players who define our club. We are proud that Orlando will continue to be her home for years to come.”
Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but ESPN reported that the Pride used the NWSL’s new High Impact Player mechanism to give Banda one of the league’s biggest contracts.
“Barbra is a cornerstone of everything we are building at the Pride,” said Caitlin Carducci, vice president of soccer operations and general manager. “She is one of the most dynamic players in world football, and her impact on our club has been extraordinary from the moment she arrived in Orlando. As we continue to compete for championships, it is critical that we not only attract top talent but also create an environment where the world’s best players want to stay and build their careers. Barbra’s decision to commit her future to Orlando is a reflection of the culture, ambition and standards that have been established throughout the Club. We are excited to continue building around a player of her caliber as we pursue even greater success in the years ahead.”
Banda helped Orlando win the NWSL championship and NWSL Shield in 2024 and recorded the first hat trick in franchise history in 2025. Her 16 goals in 2026 broke the previous single-season record of 13 set by Marta (2017), which Banda matched in 2024.
“I am very happy to continue my journey with Pride,” Banda said. “I want to thank my teammates, coaches, staff and the fans for believing in me and supporting me every day. Orlando has become a special place for me, and I am excited to keep fighting for this club and win more trophies together.”
Banda played professionally in China, Spain and her native Zambia before joining the Pride. She recently received her third consecutive nomination for the Ballon d’Or Femenin, awarded to the world’s best player.
(–Field Level Media)
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