Emma Hayes expressed her frustration over the “absurd” comments directed at Barbra Banda following her recognition as BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year.
The Zambian striker, currently with Orlando Pride, has faced a wave of criticism and online harassment since receiving this prestigious honor.
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Banda, who leads the Zambian national team, played a crucial part in helping Orlando achieve their first title in the National Women’s Soccer League this year.
Nonetheless, the BBC’s decision to honor her as Women’s Footballer of the Year has sparked considerable outrage on social media.
This backlash primarily stems from her withdrawal from two matches in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where it was alleged that she had failed a gender eligibility test. This included the tournament hosted in Morocco two years ago, which South Africa won.
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However, her agent Anton Maksimov and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have confirmed that no such test took place. They clarified that her exit from the matches was based on a decision made by the Football Association of Zambia.
Prominent figures, including author JK Rowling and former Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies, have voiced criticism towards Banda’s BBC award.
In contrast, a number of influential organizations and individuals in women’s football, such as Hayes, two-time World Cup champion Megan Rapinoe, and the NWSL Players’ Association, have rallied to support her.
Hayes remarked: “It’s appalling that she faces such scrutiny, and she has our unwavering support. Her achievements have been exceptional, both for her club and her country, and she has had a brilliant season.”
“We ought to be celebrating her achievements and the influence she has made in the NWSL, which was clear during the Olympics when she represented Zambia.”
“Frankly, I’m deeply disheartened by the amount of negativity directed at her.”
Banda, who made her international debut in 2016, has accrued 63 caps for Zambia and played in three matches at last year’s Women’s World Cup after FIFA affirmed her eligibility.
This season, she scored 13 goals in 22 appearances for the NWSL, playing an integral role in Orlando’s divisional title victory.
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Hayes further added: “I hold her in high regard as we often overlook players from countries with less football focus. It’s remarkable to witness such talent rising from Africa, and her impact is commendable.”
“I know that my assistant coach (Lisa Cole) coached her in Zambia and spoke very highly of her as an outstanding person. She has our complete backing.”
