Barbra Banda awarded BBC Women's Footballer of the Year

Zambian and Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda has been crowned BBC Women's Footballer of the Year, following a public vote on the BBC Sport website.

The 24-year-old striker triumphed after being selected from a five-player shortlist of outstanding female footballers.

The nominations, which covered performances between September 2023 and August 2024, were compiled by an international panel of football experts, including coaches, players, administrators, and independent journalists.

"I am shocked and surprised to have this award right by my side," Banda 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."

President Hakainde Hichilema congratulated the footballer on her win, saying in a post on his Facebook page, “The nation is proud of you and we are behind you”.