Grace Chanda to Miss 2024 NWSL Season Due to Injury
Copper Queens midfielder Grace Chanda will have to wait until 2025 to make her much-anticipated debut for Orlando Pride in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The club announced today that Chanda has been placed on the season-ending injury list following a ruptured quadriceps tendon in her right leg, an injury sustained while representing Zambia at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Chanda, 26, had been training with an injury while in France and managed to play only 34 minutes in Zambia’s opening match against the USA, which ended in a 3-0 defeat. Upon returning to the USA, the former Madrid CFF midfielder began working closely with Orlando Pride’s medical team and their partners at Orlando Health to begin her recovery and rehabilitation.
Club Remains Optimistic About Chanda’s Recovery
Despite the unfortunate setback, Orlando Pride remains hopeful about Chanda’s return to the pitch in the 2025 season. Haley Carter, Orlando Pride’s VP of Soccer Operations and General Manager, expressed the club’s disappointment over Chanda’s injury but emphasized their commitment to her recovery.
“We are incredibly disappointed for Grace at this injury and how it occurred. Fortunately, she is under the best possible care with our medical and performance teams here at the club and through Orlando Health,” Carter said.
Chanda has had limited playing time since 2023, making only a few appearances for Madrid CFF before her transfer to Orlando Pride. The injury she sustained prior to the 2023 Women’s World Cup further limited her time on the field, with only three appearances for Zambia since then.
Focus on Health and a Strong Return in 2025
Orlando Pride has pledged its full support for Chanda during her recovery process, with the club prepared to delay her debut until she is fully fit. The emphasis on her health and welfare underscores the club’s dedication to ensuring a safe and responsible return to professional football.
“While her debut in purple will be later than planned, it’s imperative we prioritize her health and welfare through a safe and responsible return to the pitch. We’re behind Grace every step of the way and will support her throughout the entire recovery process. With our investment, resources, and performance environment, Grace will come out of this stronger and ready to make an impact in 2025,” the club stated.
