Emma Hayes Criticizes ‘Absurd’ Attack on Barbra Banda Following Gender Controversy Over BBC Award

Banda, who shone at the Paris Olympics with a stunning hat-trick, received this prestigious award even after withdrawing from a major tournament two years ago due to gender eligibility concerns. The Orlando Pride forward has faced a wave of criticism since her recognition last Tuesday, with author JK Rowling commenting that it felt like “spitting in women’s faces.”

Two years ago, Banda was pulled from Zambia’s squad for the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations over fears she might not pass a gender verification test. Officials worried her testosterone levels could exceed the limits set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), but she has continued to thrive at the highest levels of competition.

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Though Banda’s gender has been a topic of contention, many prominent figures in women’s football, including former US captain Megan Rapinoe, have rallied to her side. They praised her selection for the award, which was determined by a panel of experts and the public vote.

At a pre-match press conference ahead of the upcoming clash with England at Wembley, Hayes took the opportunity to wholeheartedly support Banda. “Barbra Banda is an outstanding football player,” the ex-Chelsea manager declared. “It’s absurd that she has to face such scrutiny to be honest. We stand behind her completely. She’s done so much for her club and country and has had an exceptional season. We should be celebrating the influence she has had on the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). We’re all aware of her exceptional performance at the Olympics—her pace and skill on the pitch are remarkable.”

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Hayes added, “I often commend players from traditional footballing nations, but it’s wonderful to see top talent emerging from Africa, and Banda has made a significant impact. My assistant coach, Lisa Cole, who worked with her in Zambia, always speaks so highly of her character. To hear negative comments about her is disheartening, and it’s clear she has our unwavering support.”

The upcoming match requires the Lionesses to face the Olympic champions, which will serve as a crucial measure before they defend their European title in Switzerland next summer. This game showcases the tactical minds of two leading managers in women’s football: Sarina Wiegman for England and Hayes, whose mutual respect has shaped the anticipation surrounding the encounter. “When you’re up against friends, there’s an even greater desire to outdo them,” said Wiegman.

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With over 83,000 tickets already sold for this highly-anticipated showdown, US captain Lindsey Horan sees it as a pivotal moment. “Women’s football is gaining more of these incredible opportunities, and playing at Wembley against England is a motivation in itself,” she remarked.

Wembley has proven to be a successful venue for Hayes, boasting a remarkable 7-1 win-loss record during her tenure with Chelsea. Hayes is open about her ambitions to guide her team to victory at the 2027 Women’s World Cup. “Every moment coaching this team is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me,” she said, expressing her excitement about the game at Wembley, where she’ll be joined by more family than usual. “I adore watching the players evolve, overcome challenges, and engage with every aspect of the sport.”