Orlando Pride Stars banda, Chilufya, And Chanda Selected For Zambia’s WAFCON Roster
Orlando, Fla. – July 3, 2025 – the orlando Pride will be well-represented at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with forwards Barbra Banda and Prisca Chilufya, alongside midfielder Grace Chanda, all named to the Zambia Women’s National Team roster. Their selection highlights the growing international recognition of the Orlando pride talent.
Key Players Headed To WAFCON
The call-up of these players is a testament to their outstanding performances in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). This is a major opportunity for them to represent Zambia on the continental stage.
Barbra Banda: A Force To Be Reckoned with
Banda’s explosive season sees her tied for second-most goals in the NWSL with eight goals. Her standout performance against the Utah Royals on May 23 cemented her place in history.
She achieved a unique milestone by becoming the first Orlando Pride player ever to score a hat trick and the first NWSL player to achieve this feat on the road. It also marked the first time an African international has scored three goals in a single NWSL match. banda has consistently been recognized for her outstanding play, earning three consecutive Best XI of the Month honors in March, April, and May.
Prisca Chilufya: Making Her Mark
Chilufya, in her debut season with the Pride, has already made significant contributions, appearing in 11 matches. Her first NWSL goal, a crucial headed effort against the North Carolina Courage on May 10, showcased her potential.
That goal, scored in second-half stoppage time, secured a valuable point for Orlando on the road. Prior to that,she earned her first NWSL start against angel City on April 25,demonstrating her increasing integration into the team.
Grace Chanda: Overcoming Adversity
Chanda made her debut for both the Club and the NWSL on March 19 against the Washington Spirit as a second-half substitute. After missing all of last season due to injury, she has battled back to make three appearances this season, showcasing resilience and determination.
Zambia’s WAFCON Journey Begins
Zambia has been drawn into Group A for WAFCON 2025. Their tournament kicks off on Saturday, July 5, at 4 p.m.ET against Morocco. Following this, they will face Senegal on Wednesday, July 9, at 12 p.m.ET and the Democratic Republic of Congo on Saturday, July 12, at 12 p.m. ET.
Orlando Pride’s Impact on International Stage
the selection of Banda, Chilufya, and Chanda not only benefits the Zambian national team but also reflects the Orlando Pride’s commitment to nurturing international talent. Their participation in WAFCON will undoubtedly bring valuable experience back to the club.
WAFCON 2025: Group A Schedule
| Date | Time (ET) | Match |
|---|---|---|
| July 5 | 4:00 PM | Zambia vs. Morocco |
| July 9 | 12:00 PM | Zambia vs.Senegal |
| July 12 | 12:00 PM | Zambia vs.DR Congo |
The Growing Popularity of women’s Soccer
Women’s soccer has seen a surge in popularity globally, with leagues like the NWSL attracting more fans and investment.tournaments like WAFCON provide crucial platforms for players to showcase their skills and inspire future generations.
The increased visibility of women’s soccer is also driving improvements in coaching, facilities, and overall player development worldwide, contributing to a more competitive and exciting sport.
frequently Asked Questions About Orlando Pride and WAFCON
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Q: Which Orlando Pride players were selected for the Zambia WAFCON roster?
A: Forwards Barbra Banda and Prisca Chilufya, and midfielder Grace Chanda were selected. -
Q: How many goals has Barbra Banda scored this season?
A: Barbra Banda has scored eight goals, tying for second-most in the NWSL. -
Q: When does Zambia start their WAFCON group stage matches?
A: Zambia begins on July 5 against Morocco. -
Q: What was historic about Barbra Banda’s hat trick?
A: She was the first Pride player to score a hat trick, the first NWSL player to score a hat trick on the road, and the first African international to score three goals in an NWSL game. -
Q: When did Prisca Chilufya score her first NWSL goal?
A: Prisca Chilufya scored her first NWSL goal on May 10 against the North Carolina Courage. -
Q: How many NWSL appearances has Grace Chanda made this season?
A: Grace chanda has made three appearances.
What are your predictions for Zambia in WAFCON? Share your thoughts and comments below! And how do you think this will impact the Orlando Pride when the players return?
What are the potential impacts of Barbra Banda’s injuries on Zambia’s WAFCON 2024 performance?
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Orlando Pride Players on Zambia WAFCON Roster | barbra Banda & More
Zambia’s WAFCON 2024 Squad: Orlando Pride representation
The 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) features several players from the Orlando Pride, showcasing the club’s growing international influence. Leading the charge is undoubtedly Barbra Banda, zambia’s captain and a prolific goalscorer.Her presence is crucial for the Copper Queens’ ambitions in the tournament. This article details the Orlando Pride players selected for the Zambia national team and provides insights into their roles within the squad. Follow the CAF website for official tournament updates.
Key Orlando Pride Players at WAFCON
Beyond barbra Banda, several other Orlando Pride athletes are contributing to Zambia’s WAFCON campaign.The team’s success relies heavily on the synergy between these players and their ability to perform under pressure. Understanding their individual strengths is key to appreciating Zambia’s overall strategy. The WAFCON tournament is a significant platform for these athletes to demonstrate their skills on a continental stage.
| Player name | Position | Orlando Pride Role | Zambia National Team Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barbra Banda | Forward | Captain, Key Attacker | Captain, Star Striker |
| Racheal Nachula | Midfielder | Versatile midfielder | Experienced Midfielder |
| Grace Zulu | Defender | Emerging Defender | Solid Defensive Player |
WAFCON 2024: Tournament Details & Zambia’s Group
WAFCON 2024 is being held in Morocco, offering a challenging environment for all participating teams. Zambia is competing in a tough group, facing strong opposition from other African nations.The tournament serves as a qualifier for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, adding extra stakes to each match. Fans can follow the FIFA website for World Cup qualification facts.
Zambia’s Group Stage Schedule (as of July 3, 2025 – subject to change)
- match 1: Zambia vs. [Opponent 1] – [Date & Time]
- Match 2: Zambia vs. [Opponent 2] – [Date & Time]
- Match 3: Zambia vs. [opponent 3] – [Date & Time]
Note: Specific match schedules are subject to change. please refer to the official CAF website for the most up-to-date information.
Barbra Banda: A Profile of Orlando Pride’s Star
Barbra Banda’s journey to becoming a prominent figure in women’s football is inspiring. Her speed,strength,and clinical finishing make her a constant threat to opposing defenses. At the Orlando pride, she consistently delivers standout performances, earning recognition as one of the NWSL’s top players. Her
