Zambian forward Barbra Banda has made history with her inclusion in the 2024 FIFPRO Women’s XI, standing out as one of the most significant global names in women’s football.
Barbra Banda is the first African player to be included in the FIFPRO Women’s XI. No other African player had previously made the prestigious list since its inception in 2015.
FIFPRO’s Women’s XI has traditionally been dominated by players from Europe and North America, with a significant representation from countries like England, Spain, and France.
The 24-year-old, who plays for Shanghai Shengli and Orlando Pride, is the only African player to feature in this year’s prestigious list.
Her nomination comes off the back of a stellar year in international football, where her performances for Zambia at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and in club competitions caught the attention of her peers.
While Banda’s recognition is a standout, England’s dominance in the 2024 FIFPRO Women’s XI cannot be overlooked as the country saw five of their players dominate the team.
The Lionesses’ strong presence in the lineup includes goalkeeper Mary Earps, defenders Lucy Bronze and Alex Greenwood, midfielder Keira Walsh, and forward Lauren James.
Each of these players enjoyed standout years, with Bronze’s move to Chelsea after winning the Women’s Champions League with Barcelona, Walsh’s role in Barcelona’s historic quadruple-winning season, and James’s prolific scoring for Chelsea highlighting their exceptional performances.
Earps’ role in Manchester United’s FA Cup victory and her subsequent transfer to Paris Saint-Germain also contributed to her nomination.
The 2024 FIFPRO Women’s XI was chosen based on votes from over 7,000 players, reflecting performances from August 2023 to August 2024.
This year’s team showcases a blend of established stars and emerging talents, with five players from Barcelona and three from England.
Here’s the full list of the 2024 FIFPRO Women’s XI:
Mary Earps (England, Manchester United/Paris Saint-Germain)
Lucy Bronze (England, Chelsea/Barcelona)
Olga Carmona (Spain, Real Madrid)
Alex Greenwood (England, Manchester City)
Aitana Bonmatí (Spain, Barcelona)
Alexia Putellas (Spain, Barcelona)
Keira Walsh (England, Barcelona)
Barbra Banda (Zambia, Shanghai Shengli/Orlando Pride)
Linda Caicedo (Colombia, Real Madrid)
Lauren James (England, Chelsea)
Marta (Brazil, Orlando Pride)
With Barbra Banda making history, the global scope of the Women’s XI continues to broaden, recognizing players from all corners of the world.
While several African players have earned recognition at the international level and in club football, Banda’s inclusion marks a historic milestone for African footballers on this global stage.
