The National Women's Soccer League's Orlando Pride has made headlines with the signing of Zambian forward Barbra Banda from Chinese Super League team Shanghai Shengli. The transfer fee of $740,000 is the second highest in world soccer history, only behind Banda's Zambian teammate Racheal Kundananji.
Banda's four-year contract with the Pride is valued at around $2.1 million, making her one of the highest-paid players in the NWSL. The deal includes bonuses and incentives that further elevate her earnings potential.
Shanghai Shengli will retain a sell-on clause, entitling them to a percentage of any future transfer fee if Banda, aged 23, moves to another club. This clause ensures that Shanghai could benefit from Banda's success in the future.
Barbra Banda gained international recognition during the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, where she made history by scoring consecutive hat tricks in group stage matches. Despite Zambia's challenges in the tournament, Banda's exceptional talent captured the attention of soccer fans worldwide.
Following her Olympic success, Banda faced controversy over testosterone level regulations during Africa's championship and World Cup qualifying event. FIFA later allowed her to participate in the 2023 World Cup, where she scored the 1,000th goal in Women's World Cup history.
Banda's move to Orlando reflects a growing trend of African players joining the NWSL, with notable transfers like her Zambian teammate Kundananji and Nigeria's Asisat Oshoala. The women's soccer transfer market is experiencing significant growth, with FIFA reporting a record $2.1 million in fees paid during the January 2023 transfer window.
While many global transfer windows are closed until summer, the NWSL's primary transfer window remains open until April 16. Orlando Pride's acquisition of Banda signifies their commitment to strengthening their squad and competing at the highest level in women's soccer.
The NWSL's willingness to invest in top talent like Barbra Banda demonstrates the league's ambition to attract world-class players and elevate the standard of women's soccer in the United States.
