Orlando Pride's prolific striker and National Women's Soccer League Golden Boot contender, Barbra Banda, was forced to leave the field with what appeared to be a non-contact injury during a 3-1 victory over Bay FC on Friday evening. The team's top scorer was substituted off, casting a shadow over their triumph.
A spokesperson for the Pride indicated that Banda is currently undergoing assessment, and further details regarding her condition are not expected immediately. This incident is particularly concerning given Banda's impressive form this season, where she has netted 11 goals in just 12 appearances, leading the NWSL scoring charts.
In the match against Bay FC, which experienced a weather-related delay of approximately an hour, Banda showcased her scoring prowess early on. Her first goal, scored in the fourth minute, marked Orlando's quickest strike of the season. After Bay FC equalized swiftly, Banda restored Orlando's lead in the 51st minute. Just three minutes later, Cori Dyke, a Pride fullback, sealed the win with the team's third goal.
The pivotal moment arrived in the 78th minute when referee Jaclyn Metz halted play as Banda went down. The striker was visibly distressed, her face tear-streaked and covered first by her hands, then her jersey. With all five substitutions already utilized, the Pride were compelled to finish the game with only 10 players following Banda's departure.
This injury comes after Banda's return to play this year, having previously sustained a season-ending adductor injury in August of the prior year. Pride manager Seb Hines lauded her current form, noting, "She's added another level, that kind of finishing technique rather than just shooting." He also highlighted her hunger and determination, which have been evident in her performances throughout the season.
The match against Bay FC was the Pride's final fixture before the league's summer recess. Orlando currently sits in seventh place with 17 points, having concluded the first half of the season with two consecutive victories. As the 2024 NWSL Shield winners and champions, the Pride relied heavily on Banda, who scored their sole goal in the championship final and was named MVP. This season, she has accounted for all but six of the Pride's 17 goals, underscoring her critical role in the team's offense.
