By Bola Yapa Zed | 3rd November, 2025
Zambia’s Copper Queens captain Barbra Banda has once again etched her name among the global elite after being named in the FIFPRO Women’s World Best XI for the second consecutive year. The Orlando Pride forward continues to fly the Zambian flag high, cementing her place among the best female footballers in the world.
Banda, who has been one of the standout performers in both international and club football, described the honour as “humbling and inspiring.” Speaking through her official Facebook page, the Copper Queens star expressed gratitude to her fellow professional players for the recognition, noting that it motivates her to continue working hard and representing Zambia with pride.
“It’s a great honour and privilege to be included on this prestigious list again,” Banda said. “I’m grateful for the love and support from my teammates, coaches, and fans. This recognition inspires me to keep pushing boundaries and make Africa proud.”
This year’s FIFPRO Women’s World XI features two African representatives — Barbra Banda (Zambia) and Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco) — marking a significant milestone for African women’s football on the global stage. Banda’s inclusion for the second year running reflects her continued excellence and influence in the women’s game.
The team also includes six players from England, three from Spain, and the two African stars. Among the names featured are Mary Earps, Millie Bright, Leah Williamson, Keira Walsh, Aitana Bonmatí, Alexia Putellas, and Lauren Kelly, who all had standout seasons for both club and country.
For Banda, this recognition comes after another stellar year that saw her help guide Zambia to qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) and remain a key figure for Orlando Pride in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
Barbra Banda’s back-to-back inclusion in the FIFPRO Women’s World Best XI is not just a personal triumph but also a shining moment for Zambian and African football. Her relentless determination, skill, and leadership continue to inspire young athletes across the continent. As Banda keeps breaking barriers, her story reminds the world that Zambian football belongs on the global stage.
