Barbra Banda Ranked 14th In 2025 Women’s Ballon D’or

Zambian striker Barbra Banda has once again put her country on the global football map after being ranked 14th in the 2025 Women’s Ballon d’Or. 

The annual award, presented to the world’s best footballers by a panel of international journalists, is regarded as one of the most prestigious individual honors in the sport.

Banda, who plays for Orlando Pride in the United States and captains the Copper Queens, earned her second consecutive nomination following an exceptional season. Her ranking this year, though slightly down from last year’s 12th-place finish, confirms her status as one of the finest talents in world football and Africa’s standout female player.

This achievement makes Banda the highest-ranked African woman in the 2025 edition of the Ballon d’Or. Malawi’s Temwa Chawinga, who was placed 17th, joined Banda as the only other African representative in the top 20.

The Zambia Football Association (FAZ) expressed pride in Banda’s recognition, noting that her consistency at the top level reflects not only her personal determination but also the growth of women’s football in Zambia.

Banda’s performances for both club and country marked by her clinical finishing, leadership on the pitch, and ability to rise to big occasions continue to earn her international acclaim.

While just outside the top ten, her consistent appearances among the world’s elite underline her status as one of Africa’s brightest stars and a role model for aspiring players across the continent.