By Victor Kanayo
Zambia and Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda has been voted BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year.
She received the most votes from readers of the BBC Sport website after a five-player shortlist was announced last month.
The shortlist – based on performances from September 2023 to August 2024 – was selected by a large panel of experts involved in football around the world, including coaches, players, administrators and non-BBC journalists.
“I am shocked and surprised to have this award right by my side,” the 24-year-old told BBC Sport.
“I would like to thank the people who voted and everyone who has played a part in my life and my career – my family, my national team in Zambia and especially the Pride team. It is for everyone,” she added.
