Copper Queens captain Barbra Banda has expressed happiness at making the 2026 FIFA Women’s World Best XI.

Banda has continued to rewrite African women’s football history after being named in the 2026 FIFA Women’s World 11, becoming the first African woman to earn selection in the prestigious team for three consecutive years.

“Happy to have made it to the 2026 FIFPRO Women’s Best XI. It’s extra special given that it is chosen by 6,511 professional women’s footballers worldwide. Thank you, I am grateful,” wrote Banda on her Facebook page.

The Orlando Pride forward is the only African representative in this year’s team, which was selected through votes cast by 6,511 professional women’s footballers from 54 countries worldwide.

Her latest recognition marks an impressive streak that began with her first selection in 2024, followed by another appearance in 2025 and now a third consecutive inclusion in 2026.

According to FIFPRO, Banda’s third appearance further extends her record as the African woman with the most Women’s World 11 selections.

She is also the only player in this year’s team representing a country outside England and Spain.

The achievement is another significant milestone for Banda’s growing influence on the global women’s game.

Her selection comes after a standout campaign for club and country.

At Orlando Pride, the Zambian striker enjoyed a record-setting 2026 season, scoring 16 goals to break the club’s single-season scoring record, previously set by Brazilian legend Marta with 13 goals in 2017.

She also contributed three assists across competitions, establishing herself as one of the most productive forwards in the National Women’s Soccer League.

The FIFPRO World Best XI has goalkeeper Hannah Hampton (Chelsea/England), and defenders Lucy Bronze (Chelsea/England), Alex Greenwood (Manchester City/England), Mapi Leon (Barcelona/Spain) and Irene Paredes (Barcelona/Spain).

Midfielders are Aitana Bonmatí (Barcelona/Spain), Alexia Putellas (Barcelona/Spain), Ella Toone (Manchester United/England), while strikers are Claudia Pina (Barcelona/Spain), Alessia Russo (Arsenal/England) and Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride/Zambia).