Barbra Banda delivered a standout individual performance, scoring her first brace of the year for Orlando Pride, but it was not enough as they fell 3-2 to Racing Louisville FC in a closely contested National Women’s Soccer League encounter.
Orlando Pride started brightly, asserting early dominance and creating several chances, including an effort from Haley McCutcheon that struck the post. However, it was Louisville who broke the deadlock against the run of play. In the 19th minute, Lauren Milliet produced a moment of quality, driving forward before unleashing a powerful long-range strike that curled into the top corner.
The Pride responded just before halftime with a well-executed counterattack. Goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse initiated the move with a crucial save before the ball was worked through Marta and Angelina. Banda then showcased her physicality and composure, outmuscling her marker and calmly finishing to restore parity heading into the break.
Louisville came out strongly in the second half, regaining control with two quick goals in a three-minute spell. Sarah Weber found the net before Milliet grabbed her second of the match, putting the hosts firmly in command and leaving Orlando with a difficult task.
Banda, however, continued to lead the fight. The Copper Queens captain struck again in stoppage time, finishing off a header from Hannah Anderson to register her second goal of the night. Despite the late push, Orlando Pride could not find an equalizer before the final whistle.
The brace takes Banda’s tally to five goals in six league matches, making her the current top scorer in the league — a reflection of her growing influence in the NWSL and her clinical edge in front of goal.
Orlando Pride will now look to regroup as they prepare to host the in-form Washington Spirit in their next fixture, with Banda expected to remain central to their attacking threat.
