Zambia and Orlando Pride forward, NWSL Championship MVP Barbra Banda named BBC Women's Footballer of the Year

Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda was named the BBC Women's Footballer of the Year on Tuesday, just days after being named the NWSL Championship MVP for her game-winning goal in the Pride's title win over the Washington Spirit.

Banda had an impressive domestic year in the NWSL, scoring 13 goals, but has also had an outstanding international year, scoring four goals for Zambia in the Paris Olympics. Banda became the leading African goalscorer in Olympic history with 10 goals.

The BBC Women's Footballer of the Year was voted for by fans. Banda responded to the recognition on X:

Banda is the second African footballer to win the BBC prize, as Asisat Oshooala won in 2015.