Barbra Banda leads Orlando Pride to 7th consecutive win with brace against Seattle Reign

Copper Queens skipper, Barbra Banda, shined with a brace in Orlando Pride’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Seattle Reign on Sunday, maintaining Orlando’s unbeaten streak in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).

Banda, whose tally now stands at 6 goals and two assists in five NWSL starts, showcased her prowess once again on the field.

The Pride, alongside the Kansas City Current, stands as the only two undefeated teams this season.

Orlando’s coach Seb Hines stated the significance of the win, especially away from home, saying, “It’s something we talked about last year, picking up more points away from home.”

The match saw Emily Sams open the scoring for the Pride in the 9th minute, securing her first professional goal.

Banda added to the tally just 10 minutes later, expertly heading in Adriana’s cross.

Seattle Reign fought back with Angharad James-Turner’s deflected shot finding the net just before halftime.

Bethany Balcer then equalized for the Reign early in the second half, capitalizing on a pass from Jess Fishlock.

However, a Pride corner kick in the 58th minute proved decisive as Banda volleyed in her second goal of the match.

Reflecting on the game, Coach Hines praised his team’s resilience, stating, “To concede so late on in the first half is something that we need to reflect and review moving forward.

“The second half, it was a grind. It was great determination, getting through that adversity, as well, [after] conceding so early in the second half to come back and get that third goal was really important for us.”

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