Allegations of Hateful Language Mar NWSL Match
In a recent development that has sent ripples through the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), both the league and NJ/NY Gotham FC are currently investigating an incident involving “hateful language” directed at Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda. This unfortunate event took place during Orlando’s 2-0 victory over Gotham on Sunday.
In a unified front, Gotham FC, the Orlando Pride, and the NWSL released a joint statement condemning the behavior, stating, “This behavior is unacceptable and has no place in our league or in our stadiums.” While the specifics of the language used have not been disclosed, the message is clear: such conduct will not be tolerated.
Gotham FC has assured that “stadium security swiftly responded” to the reported incident at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, which is Gotham’s home ground. The individual involved was “directly addressed,” and security personnel “[monitored] the situation for the remainder of the match.”
Both the NWSL and Gotham FC are collaborating to determine further actions in line with the league’s Fan Code of Conduct. Gotham is actively reviewing footage of the incident and has been in contact with the fan who reported it, as confirmed by a club spokesperson to ESPN.
The NWSL emphasized its commitment to maintaining safe and respectful environments for all, particularly for the athletes who are the pride of the 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,” the statement read.
Unfortunately, this is not the first time Banda has faced such challenges. She was previously subjected to online abuse following her remarkable performance in the 2024 NWSL Championship, where she scored the winning goal and was named BBC World Footballer of the Year. The online vitriol was amplified by public figures with significant followings, including author J.K. Rowling.
The NWSL Players Association was quick to respond to these attacks, with executive director Meghann Burke addressing Rowling and others who engaged in what she termed the “lowest form of discourse” on social media.
The roots of these attacks can be traced back to a 2022 incident during the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, which also served as World Cup qualifying. Banda was controversially ruled out of the tournament, leading to a blame game among officials. Despite this, Zambia qualified for the 2023 World Cup, and Banda played in the tournament.
Banda’s prowess on the field is undeniable. She has competed in the past two Olympics, scoring a hat trick in each edition. Her hat trick against Australia in July made her the first woman to score three hat tricks in an Olympic career. Banda joined Orlando last year and made an immediate impact, scoring 13 goals in her debut NWSL season.
The NWSL Players Association has issued a statement standing firmly with the Orlando Pride and NJ/NY Gotham FC in condemning the hateful behavior directed at Banda. “There is no place for harassment or abuse in our sport, and we support efforts to address this incident swiftly and responsibly,” the statement declared.
- Soccer is built on principles of fairness, inclusion, and respect for human dignity.
- Any form of hateful conduct undermines these values and has no place in our fandom.
- Barbra Banda is a generational talent, deserving of dignity and respect.
The association reiterated its commitment to ensuring a safe and respectful atmosphere for everyone involved in the game. They pledged to work alongside the league and clubs to ensure accountability and protect the dignity of every player.
Originally Written by: Jeff Kassouf
