Zambia’s Barbra Banda and Malawi’s Tabitha Chawinga have made history as the first players from their respective nations to be nominated for the women’s Ballon d’Or.
The nominations for the prestigious 2024 award recognise their outstanding performances over the past year, cementing their status among the world’s elite.
Banda, 24, has been in scintillating form for both club and country. The Zambia captain became the second-most expensive player in women’s football history when she joined National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) side Orlando Pride in March.
She has since scored 12 goals in 14 league appearances and continued her goalscoring exploits at the Paris Olympics, netting her third Games hat-trick in a 6-5 defeat by Australia.
Chawinga, 27, has been making waves in Europe. The Malawian striker enjoyed a prolific season with Paris St-Germain, scoring 18 goals in 19 league outings. Her performances earned her a move to French rivals Lyon.
Both players have overcome significant challenges to reach the top of the women’s game.
Banda led Zambia to their first-ever Women’s World Cup appearance in 2023, becoming the first African to score three goals in a single World Cup match with her hat-trick against Costa Rica.
Chawinga’s journey from Malawi to the pinnacle of European football serves as an inspiration to young African girls with big dreams.
Their nominations highlight the growing strength of women’s football in Africa, with more players from the continent making their mark in top leagues globally.
The recognition comes at a time of unprecedented growth in the women’s game, with increased investment, visibility and opportunities for players from diverse backgrounds.
As Banda and Chawinga prepare for the Ballon d’Or ceremony, they carry not only their personal aspirations but also the hopes of their nations and the entire African continent.
Their presence on the shortlist is a testament to their talent, hard work and the bright future of African women’s football.
