Barbra Banda Stars as Orlando Pride Demolish Chicago Red Stars
Barbra Banda made a spectacular start to her 2025 NWSL season, scoring twice and providing an assist as Orlando Pride crushed Chicago Red Stars 6-0 at Exploria Stadium. The defending champions bounced back emphatically from their Challenge Cup defeat to Washington Spirit, with Banda leading the charge in an electrifying attacking display.
Orlando Pride Assert Their Dominance
From the first whistle, Orlando Pride imposed themselves on the game, with Banda making an early statement in the 7th minute by forcing a reflex save from Chicago goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher. The rebound fell to Morgan Gautrat, who set up Hayley McCutcheon for a stunning left-footed strike to open the scoring.
Brazilian legend Marta then played a crucial role in doubling the lead, delivering a pinpoint corner that Ally Watt expertly headed into the net in the 36th minute. Orlando continued to dominate, and their relentless pressure saw Chicago defender Hannah Anderson put the ball into her own net just after the interval while trying to clear a dangerous ball from Banda.
Banda’s Individual Brilliance Shines Through
Banda turned provider in the 65th minute, using her blistering pace to beat her marker before cutting the ball back for Julie Doyle, who finished with composure to make it 4-0. The Zambian star then got her name on the scoresheet in the 80th minute, racing past defenders before calmly placing the ball past Naeher to register her first NWSL goal.
She wasn’t done yet. In the 87th minute, Banda pounced on a misplaced back pass from Camryn Biegalski and unleashed a thunderous strike from 25 yards, sealing an unforgettable night for Orlando Pride.
Banda Reflects on Her Stunning Performance
Speaking after the match, Banda expressed her excitement about scoring a brace in her league debut and praised her teammates for their support.
“It’s a great feeling to start the season this way,” Banda said. “Scoring goals and helping my team win is what I love to do, and I’m happy we got the three points in front of our home fans.”
She also emphasized the importance of teamwork and staying focused on the bigger picture.
“We have an amazing squad, and the understanding on the pitch is really good. Everyone played their part today, and I’m just happy to be part of this team,” she added.
Despite the emphatic win, Banda remained level-headed about the challenges ahead.
“This is just the beginning. We have a long season ahead, and we need to stay focused, work hard, and keep improving,” she concluded.
Orlando Pride Shift Focus to Next Challenge
With an opening-day statement victory, Orlando Pride has set the tone for their title defense, and Banda’s explosive performance will undoubtedly be a major boost for coach Seb Hines. Up next, they face NJ/NY Gotham at the Red Bull Arena on March 23, where Banda will look to continue her fine form.
