Barbra Banda reacts to bitter-sweet NWSL match

Zambian striker Barbra Banda has reacted to what she branded a bitter-sweet experience of scoring and then losing a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) encounter in America on Sunday, 3 May 2026.

The Copper Queens forward scored twice for Orlando Pride FC as they suffered a 2-4 loss to Washington Spirit FC at Inter & Co Stadium.

Reflecting on the match via her official x.com @Barbrabanda11 page, Barbra Banda shared the joy of scoring and the pain of losing the NWSL game.

Barbra Banda reflects on NWSL result

“Bitter-sweet moment—happy to be on target with a brace, but again not enough to help my team get maximum points, which was the target. Unfortunately, we fell short. We focus on the next one and try to get the win we want and need,” the 26-year-old tweeted.

The visitors scored their goals through Sofia Cantore’s double and a strike each from Claudia Martinez and Trinity Roadman.

Rafaelle headed a ball from a corner kick to Barbra Banda, who then volleyed the ball to level matters for Pride FC in the 33rd minute.

Barbra Banda chasing NWSL Golden Boot

Six minutes later, the Copper Queens forward added her second goal to drag the hosts back into the game. The goal marked Banda’s club-record fifth career goal from a corner kick in the NWSL.

The Zambian still leads the NWSL Golden Boot Award chase with seven goals so far.

After the break, Martínez and Rodman found the back of the net in the 55th and 70th minutes respectively to seal the victory.