Zambia forward Barbra Banda has credited her Orlando Pride teammates after she scored the first hat-trick in the club’s history, Afrosport reports.
Banda achieved the feat in the Pride’s 3-1 victory in the NWSL on Friday night, which ended a three-game winless streak and moved them up to second on the table.
It took the 25-year-old to seven goals in 10 league games this season, continuing her impressive form with the reigning NWSL champions since joining last season.
Reflecting on her landmark moment, Banda said: “I have been working hard and keep working hard. I couldn’t have done it without the help of my teammates and our staff. I wasn’t sure if I was going to make it, but I am so proud of the team.”
She added: “I was a little surprised because they gave me so much space. I am just so happy for the goals. In the last three games, I didn’t score, so I really wanted to today. I had to try my hardest, and I wanted to score so bad, so I am happy for the goals.”
you should see me in a crown
pic.twitter.com/rKBQDQsrnl
— Orlando Pride (@ORLPride) May 25, 2025
Pride head coach Seb Hines, speaking on Banda’s historic hat-trick, said: “She is a constant threat. It was three different types of goals which was pleasing to see. She has been waiting patiently and been getting half chances but no real clear-cut opportunities.
“I was really pleased with her, and obviously it is the first hat trick in Pride history, and that has been a long wait for that opportunity, but she took it well. Credit to her being patient and scoring the goals that we needed.”
Orlando are five points behind current NWSL leaders Kansas City Current and will next take on Houston Dash at home.
