NWSL And Gotham FC Begin Investigation Into Hateful Language Directed At Barbra Banda

Written by Oluwaseun Oyediji

The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and Gotham FC are investigating hateful comments directed at Zambian international Barbra Banda during last weekend’s match.

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In a statement released by NWSL, the league condemned the behaviour.

It also confirmed commencement of investigation into the issue alongside Gotham FC.

The National Women’s Soccer League is aware of an incident involving hateful language directed at Barbra Banda during this weekend’s match between Gotham FC and Orlando Pride,” NWSL stated.

“We are united in our message: this behavior is unacceptable and has no place in our league or in our stadiums. Gotham FC and the NWSL are working together to further investigate the incident and take additional action where appropriate under the league’s Fan Code of Conduct.

“We are committed to ensuring that our venues are safe and respectful environments for all – especially for the athletes who represent the very best of our sport. Barbra Banda is both an exceptional player and person, and the NWSL is immensely proud to support her as a member of our league.

“As a league, we remain committed to holding individuals accountable for conduct that violates our standards and values, and to reinforcing the inclusive spirit of the NWSL community.”

Banda’s team, Orlando Pride also issued a statement pertaining to the incidence.

“The Orlando Pride has been made aware of the incident involving hateful language directed at Barbra Banda during the team’s match against Gotham FC.

“The Pride are United in this message alongside the NWSL and Gotham FC: This behaviour is unacceptable and has no place in our league and our stadium.

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“Barbra is an outstanding role model and an influential advocate for soccer both in Africa and here in the United States. We look forward to continuing to celebrate and support her on and off the pitch.”

The current Africa women player of the year has been a subject of hateful statement in recent times especially during WSL matches fans put out posters to challenge her gender.

Banda has been an exceptional player for club and country helping the Pride to Shield and Championship double last season.

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About Author

Oluwaseun Oyediji

I am a huge advocate of Women’s football after covering the Nigeria Women Football Leagues (NWFL) since 2019. An unbiased football writer with penchant for women’s in sports and historical analysis.

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