Club apologizes as Africa’s pride, Banda, attacked by fans of losing side in National Soccer Women’s League

Orlando Pride has denounced the use of hateful language directed at its star forward, Barbara Banda, during the team’s 2-0 victory over Gotham FC on Sunday in New York.

In a statement on Monday, the club described the incident as “unacceptable” and pledged to work with the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and Gotham FC to ensure appropriate action was taken.

“This behavior has no place in our league or stadiums,” the club said, emphasizing Banda’s role as an influential advocate for soccer in both Africa and the United States.

Gotham FC has since apologized to Orlando Pride and confirmed that the league was investigating the incident.

According to a joint statement from the NWSL, Orlando Pride, and Gotham FC, stadium security swiftly responded once the abuse was reported and took steps to address the individual involved.

Banda, 25, was named BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year in 2024 after scoring 17 goals to lead Orlando to its first NWSL championship.

She also made history as Africa’s top scorer in Olympic football, netting 10 goals across two tournaments, including four at the Paris Olympics last year.

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