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Barbra Banda Clinches IFFHS Award as Women’s World Best International Goal Scorer in 2023
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Chikondi
Barbra Banda Clinches IFFHS Award as Women’s World Best International Goal Scorer in 2023
In the ever-evolving tapestry of women’s football, certain players stand out, etching their names into the annals of history. The latest to join this elite group is Zambia’s football sensation, Barbra Banda.
Following in the illustrious footsteps of Ellen White (2021) and Samantha Kerr (2022), Banda has secured the prestigious IFFHS Award for Women’s World Best International Goal Scorer in 2023, marking a triumphant chapter in her remarkable career.
Read Also: Zambia’s AFCON Journey Begins: National Team Sets Off for Saudi Arabia Camp
15 Goals for Zambia: A Testament to Banda’s Brilliance
The zenith of Banda’s goal-scoring brilliance, however, unfolded on the international stage. Representing Zambia’s National Team, she netted an astounding 15 goals in 2023. This remarkable achievement not only secured her the IFFHS Award but also reaffirmed her position as the world leader for international goals, leaving a trail of awe and admiration in her wake.
A Global Stage: Top Scorers from Every Continent
The World Top 30 Goal Scorers in 2023 paints a vivid picture of diversity and excellence. From Africa to Europe, Asia to the Americas, every continent is represented. What’s even more remarkable is the presence of not one, but two players from Zambia shining in the Top 5. Banda’s achievement is not just personal; it’s a testament to the growing influence of African football on the world stage.
Youthful Talents: Salma Paralluelo and the Legacy Continues
In the dynamic landscape of women’s football, youth is not to be underestimated. The IFFHS Women’s World Best Youth (U20) Player, Salma Paralluelo, made her mark with 14 goals in 2023, showcasing her incredible talent for FC Barcelona and Spain. As the next generation steps into the limelight, the legacy of goal-scoring prowess seems destined to endure.
Kerr’s Consistency: A Testament to Her Stature
Amidst the rise of new stars, Samantha Kerr’s consistent presence in the Top 3 for three consecutive years speaks volumes. From her eighth-place ranking in 2021 to claiming the top spot in 2022 and now securing the third position in 2023, Kerr has cemented her place in the history of women’s football goal-scorers, demonstrating a remarkable and enduring skill on the pitch.
In conclusion, Barbra Banda’s triumph in 2023 not only adds another chapter to the history of women’s football but also amplifies the narrative of African excellence in the sport. As Banda, Paralluelo, and Kerr continue to dazzle the world with their goal-scoring feats, one thing is certain – the future of women’s football is in capable and inspiring hands.
THE RANKING 2023
| Rank | Name | Country | Club | ICC | NT | TOTAL |
| 1 | Barbra BANDA | Zambia | Shangai (China) | 15 | 15 | |
| 2 | Salma PARALLUELO | Spain | FC Barcelona (Spain) | 6 | 8 | 14 |
| 3 | Samantha KERR | Australia | Chelsea (England) | 5 | 8 | 13 |
| 4 | Temwa CHAWINGA | Malawi | Wuhan (China) | 12 | 12 | |
| 5 | Racheal KUNDANANJI | Zambia | Madrid CFF (Spain) | 12 | 12 | |
| 6 | Melchie DUMORNAY | Haïti | Reims/Olympique Lyon | 11 | 11 | |
| 7 | Alexandra POPP | Germany | VFK Wolfsburg | 5 | 6 | 11 |
| 8 | Lineth BEERENSTEYN | Netherlands | Juventus (Italy) | 10 | 10 | |
| 9 | Esther GONZALES RODRIGUEZ | Spain | Real Madrid | 9 | 9 | |
| 10 | Kiana PALACIOS | Mexico | Club America | 9 | 9 | |
| 11 | Wang SHUANG | China | Louisville (USA) | 9 | 9 | |
| 12 | Haley BUGEJA | Malta | Inter Milan (italy) | 9 | 9 | |
| 13 | Sharon BECK | Israel | Köln (Germany) | 9 | 9 | |
| 14 | Ewa PAJOR | Poland | Wolfsburg (Germany) | 2 | 7 | 9 |
| 15 | Aitana BONMATI | Spain | FC Barcelona | 3 | 6 | 9 |
| 16 | Kaditianou DIANI | France | PSG/Lyon | 5 | 4 | 9 |
| 17 | Bia ZANERATTO | Brazil | Palmeiras | 6 | 3 | 9 |
| 18 | Kiko SEIKE | Japan | Urawa RD | 6 | 3 | 9 |
| 19 | Jennifer HERMOSO | Spain | Pachuca (Mexico) | 8 | 8 | |
| 20 | Linda SALLSTRÖM | Finland | Vittsjö (Sweden) | 8 | 8 | |
| 21 | Catalina USME | Colombia | America Cali | 1 | 7 | 8 |
| 22 | Alba REDONDO FERRER | Spain | Levante UD | 2 | 6 | 8 |
| 23 | Valentina GIACINTI | Italy | AS Roma | 4 | 4 | 8 |
| 24 | Romee LEUCHTER | Netherlands | Ajax | 8 | 8 | |
| 25 | PRISCILLA | Brazil | Internacional | 8 | 8 | |
| 26 | Mallory PUGH-SWANSON | USA | Chicago RS | 7 | 7 | |
| 27 | Lea SCHULLER | Germany | FC Bayern München | 2 | 5 | 7 |
| 28 | Alessia RUSSO | England | Man United/Arsenal | 2 | 5 | 7 |
| 29 | Ada HEGERBERG | Norway | Lyon (France) | 3 | 4 | 7 |
| 30 | Fridolina RÖLFO | Sweden | FC Barcelona (Spain) | 3 | 4 | 7 |

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