Emma Hayes Voices Disappointment at Criticism of Barbra Banda After BBC Award Win

Emma Hayes expressed her frustration over the “absurd” comments directed at Barbra Banda after she was named the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year.

The Zambian striker, who plays for Orlando Pride, has faced a wave of negative remarks and online harassment following her prestigious award.

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Banda, who is the captain of her national team, played a vital role in leading Orlando to their first National Women’s Soccer League title this season.

However, her selection by the BBC for the Women’s Footballer of the Year has drawn significant criticism online.

This backlash is primarily related to her absence from two matches in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, amid claims that she failed a gender eligibility test during the tournament in Morocco two years ago, which was won by South Africa.

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Nonetheless, both her agent Anton Maksimov and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have clarified that no such test took place, stating that her withdrawal was due to a decision made by the Football Association of Zambia.

High-profile individuals, including author JK Rowling and former Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies, have publicly condemned Banda’s BBC award.

Conversely, various influential organizations and individuals within women’s football have rallied behind her, including Hayes, two-time World Cup champion Megan Rapinoe, and the NWSL Players’ Association.

Hayes remarked: “It’s absurd that she has to deal with these inquiries, and she has our unwavering support. Her achievements are extraordinary, both for her club and country, and her performance this season has been exceptional.”

“We should be celebrating her achievements and the influence she’s had in the NWSL, especially during the Olympics when she represented Zambia.”

“Honestly, I find the negativity directed at her deeply disheartening.”

Banda, who made her international debut in 2016, has represented Zambia 63 times and competed in three matches at last year’s Women’s World Cup after FIFA recognized her eligibility.

This season, she scored 13 goals in 22 NWSL games, playing an integral part in Orlando’s divisional title victory.

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Hayes further commented: “I have immense respect for her because in women’s football, we tend to spotlight players from more established football nations. It’s remarkable to see such talent emerge from Africa, and her impactful contributions are commendable.”

“My assistant coach (Lisa Cole) coached her in Zambia and has always shared positive feedback about her as an exceptional individual. She has our full backing.”