Grace Chanda: Zambia’s Fearless Midfield Maestro Shines on the Global Stage

Personal Information

Full Name: Grace Chanda
Date of Birth: 11 June 1997
Nationality: Zambian
Position: Midfielder / Forward
Current Club: Orlando Pride (National Women’s Soccer League)
National Team: Zambia

Club Career

ZESCO Ndola Girls: The Rise of a Prolific Talent

Grace Chanda’s football journey began with ZESCO Ndola Girls, where she quickly carved a name for herself as one of Zambia’s most lethal finishers. In the 2018 season alone, she scored an astonishing 86 goals in 26 matches—an unheard-of feat that turned heads across the country.

Her ability to score from anywhere on the pitch, coupled with her creative instincts, made her a nightmare for defenders and a fan favorite in the domestic league.

Red Arrows Women’s (2021): Leading by Example

With the establishment of the FAZ Women’s Super Division, Chanda joined Red Arrows Women‘s in 2021. She delivered on every expectation—scoring 35 goals in the inaugural season to claim the Golden Boot and earning the prestigious FAZ Women’s Player of the Year award.

Under her leadership, Red Arrows finished second in the league. More than just goals, Chanda brought professionalism and visibility to the growing women’s football scene in Zambia.

BIIK Kazygurt (2022): Making History on the European Stage

Her breakout at home opened the door to Europe, and in March 2022, she signed with BIIK Kazygurt, the dominant force in Kazakhstani women’s football. Chanda wasted no time making history: she scored a UEFA Women’s Champions League hat-trick on her debut against ŽNK Split—becoming the first Zambian woman to do so.

Her performances in Europe were a proud moment for Zambian football and proved she could compete at the highest level.

Madrid CFF (2022–2024): A Star in Spain

In September 2022, Grace Chanda joined Madrid CFF in Spain’s top-tier Liga F. She settled in fast, scoring in key matches and becoming a core part of Madrid’s attacking unit. Her goal in a draw against Atlético Madrid and an assist-filled outing against Real Betis solidified her reputation as a clutch performer.

Though her momentum was disrupted by illness post-World Cup in 2023, Chanda bounced back in May 2024, helping Madrid CFF close the season with a top-five finish—equaling their best-ever league position.

Orlando Pride (2024–Present): A Dream Paused

On 30 May 2024, Chanda signed with Orlando Pride in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), one of the most competitive women’s football leagues in the world. She was set to join after the Paris Olympics.

But fate had other plans.

A ruptured quadriceps tendon sustained during Olympic duty ruled her out for the rest of the season. Orlando Pride placed her on the Season Ending Injury List and lodged a formal complaint with FIFA against the Football Association of Zambia, alleging medical negligence.

While her NWSL debut is on hold, Chanda remains determined to come back stronger.

International Career

From Copperbelt to Continental Recognition

Grace Chanda has been a cornerstone of the Zambian women’s national team since 2018. She represented the country at the Africa Women Cup of Nations (AWCON) in both 2018 and 2022, dazzling with her versatility and attacking brilliance.

During the 2020 CAF Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament, she led Zambia’s charge to history—netting eight crucial goals to secure the country’s first-ever Olympic berth.

Continental Accolades & Setbacks

Chanda’s consistent excellence earned her a nomination for the 2022 African Women’s Footballer of the Year—placing her among Africa’s elite. She was also selected in the 2022 AWCON Team of the Tournament, as Zambia claimed a historic third-place finish.

Although illness ruled her out of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, she was recalled for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Unfortunately, her campaign was cut short due to injury in the opening match.

Legacy & Impact

Grace Chanda’s journey is a powerful story of resilience, brilliance, and belief. From smashing goal records in Zambia to flying the flag in Europe and signing with an NWSL giant, she has broken barriers and inspired a generation of Zambian girls to dream beyond borders.

Her blend of technical ability, vision, and tenacity has made her one of Africa’s most complete footballers. While recent setbacks have slowed her momentum, her legacy as a pioneer and role model continues to grow.

Grace Chanda isn’t just a footballer—she’s a symbol of what’s possible.

Key Achievements & Records

✅ Scored 86 goals in one season (ZESCO Ndola Girls, 2018)
✅ FAZ Women’s Super Division Golden Boot winner (2021 – 35 goals)
✅ FAZ Women’s Player of the Year (2021)
✅ First Zambian woman to score a UEFA Champions League hat-trick
✅ Shortlisted for 2022 African Women’s Footballer of the Year
✅ Key player in Zambia’s qualification for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics
✅ Member of the 2022 AWCON Team of the Tournament
✅ Signed by NWSL’s Orlando Pride in 2024