Banda’s brace secures team eighth wins in a row, brings her tally to 8 goals in 7 matches

Copper Queens captain, Barbra Banda, scored twice to help Orlando Pride secure their eighth consecutive victory, defeating Portland Thorns 2-1 in a top-of-the-table clash on Friday.

The in-form Banda netted both goals in the first half, bringing her tally to eight goals in seven matches.

Banda opened the scoring in the 30th minute with a header from a rebound following a corner kick, marking her fourth headed goal of the season, more than any other team in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) outside of Orlando.

Ten minutes later, six-time World Player of the Year Marta provided an assist with a through ball.

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Banda’s initial shot was blocked by Thorns defender Kelli Hubly, but the rebound fell kindly for the forward, who dribbled around goalkeeper Shelby Hogan to score.

Banda was subbed off at halftime after her impressive first-half performance.

Portland substitute Izzy D’Aquila scored a consolation goal in the 71st minute.

Orlando Pride remained one of the two unbeaten teams in the NWSL, alongside the Kansas City Current.

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