Barbra Banda returns from injury with goals for Orlando Pride

Banda got a knock in Orlando Pride’s clash against Kansas City in August last year and had been out for eight months before making her return last weekend.

Speaking to the media after the event Banda says making the starting line up after such an injury shows how the coach believes in her.

“I think it’s the trust from the team and everyone, you know coming back from injury and finding myself in the line-up, I think that keeps me moving to work extra hard because it’s a game of competition, everyone is fighting for a number so, each and every time you need to up your game,” Banda said.

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The 33-year-old finished second in the Golden Boot race scoring 13 goals in her NWSL debut in 2024 and despite missing the second half of the season in 2025, she scored eight goals in 16 matches.

The Copper Queens captain says she aims to net more goals for the Orlando side this season.

“It feels good after being out for a long time and scoring in my first game back, gives me a go-ahead for the next game to work hard and keep on scoring. I actually miss scoring so I should keep on scoring,” she added.

For their next league game, Orlando Pride will travel to take on the Chicago Stars on Wednesday.