DailySun
Emma Hayes expressed her frustration over the “absurd” comments directed at Barbra Banda following her honor as BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year.
The Zambian forward, currently with Orlando Pride, has faced a wave of negative reactions and online harassment since receiving this prestigious award.
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Banda, who leads her national team, played a pivotal role in helping Orlando secure their first National Women’s Soccer League title this year.
Nonetheless, the BBC’s decision to award her the Women’s Footballer of the Year title has sparked significant controversy on social media.
The criticism primarily revolves around her withdrawal from two matches in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where allegations surfaced regarding her failure in a gender eligibility assessment. This included the tournament held in Morocco two years ago, which was won by South Africa.
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However, her agent Anton Maksimov and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have clarified that no such assessment took place. They revealed that her withdrawal stemmed from a decision made by the Football Association of Zambia.
Notable figures, including author JK Rowling and former Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies, have publicly criticized Banda’s BBC award.
Conversely, many prominent organizations and individuals in women’s football have rallied to her support, including Hayes, two-time World Cup champion Megan Rapinoe, and the NWSL Players’ Association.
Hayes remarked: “It’s appalling that she has to deal with these criticisms, and she has our complete support. Her achievements have been extraordinary, both for her club and country, and she has had a stellar season.”
“We ought to be celebrating her accomplishments and the influence she’s exerted in the NWSL, which was clearly evident during the Olympics representing Zambia.”
“Honestly, it saddens me greatly to see the extent of negativity she faces.”
Banda, who made her international debut in 2016, has earned 63 caps for Zambia and participated in three matches at last year’s Women’s World Cup after FIFA confirmed her eligibility.
This season, she scored 13 goals in 22 NWSL matches, playing a key role in Orlando’s divisional title victory.
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Hayes continued: “I hold her in high regard because in women’s football, we frequently highlight players from more established football nations. It’s remarkable to see such talent emerging from Africa, and her substantial influence deserves recognition.”
“I know my assistant coach (Lisa Cole) coached her in Zambia and spoke very highly of her as an exceptional person. She has our unwavering support.”
