Orlando Pride stars Marta and Barbra Banda have been named to the 2024 FIFPRO Women’s World 11, a recognition determined exclusively by 7,000 footballers from around the world.
Marta’s return to the FIFPRO Women’s World 11 is her third career selection, with previous honors in 2019 and 2021. The Pride captain showcased her legendary talent throughout the 2024 NWSL season, finishing as a nominee for both MVP and Midfielder of the Year. She scored nine goals and provided one assist in the regular season, but Marta’s leadership shone brightest during the postseason, where she added two goals to help the Pride secure the NWSL Championship. And for country, she earned a silver medal with Brazil at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Barbra Banda’s debut season in the NWSL was groundbreaking. The Zambian forward scored 13 goals and six assists in the regular season, finishing second in the Golden Boot race and tying the league’s single-season record for braces with four. Banda continued her dominant form in the playoffs, netting in every round, including the game-winning goal in the NWSL Championship, which earned her the Championship MVP title. On the international stage, Banda’s achievements were equally historic. She became the first player in women’s football to record three Olympic hat tricks and scored four goals for Zambia at the Paris 2024 Olympics, solidifying her status as a global icon in the sport.
Banda and Marta’s chemistry and individual brilliance propelled the Pride to unprecedented success this year, securing their first-ever NWSL Shield and NWSL Championship title. And with the award being completely player-voted, their inclusion in the Women’s World 11 reflects not just their personal excellence but also the respect from their peers.