Barbra Banda has been ranked the 14th best female football player in the world at the 2025 Women’s Ballon d’Or.
This marks the second time the Orlando Pride striker has been nominated for the prestigious award, once again finishing just outside the top ten.
Banda’s outstanding performance earned her the distinction of being the highest-ranked African female footballer on this year’s list.
The Women’s Ballon d’Or was won by Spanish and Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmatí, who claimed her third consecutive title.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Super Falcons and Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie finished 4th in the inaugural edition of the Women’s Yachine Trophy.
Two African players also made the top ten in the overall Ballon d’Or rankings: Egypt and Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah placed fourth, while Paris Saint-Germain and Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi secured sixth position after playing a key role in his club’s Champions League triumph.
Chansa Kunda, ZNBC
