Soccer NWSL 2024: How a Barbra Banda-inspired Orlando Pride turned their fortunes around

Orlando Pride's resurgence in the 2024 NWSL season was nothing short of remarkable.

After a disappointing 2023 campaign, which saw them finish ninth in the league, many had written off the Pride as a contender.

However, a number of key changes in the offseason, including the signing of Zambian striker Barbra Banda, helped to transform the team's fortunes.

Banda's impact on the Pride was immediate.

The 23-year-old scored 15 goals in 20 games, helping the Pride to a third-place finish in the regular season.

She also formed a lethal partnership with fellow forward Sydney Leroux, who scored 12 goals of her own.

In addition to Banda's goalscoring prowess, she also brought a winning mentality to the Pride.

She had previously won two league titles and two cups with Spanish club Logroño, and she helped to instill a belief in her teammates that they could achieve success.

The Pride's resurgence was also due in part to the arrival of new head coach Seb Hines.

Hines, a former Premier League defender, brought a wealth of experience and tactical nous to the team.

He implemented a possession-based style of play that suited the team's talented players, and he also helped to improve the team's defense.

The Pride's turnaround in the 2024 season was a testament to the impact of a few key changes.

The signing of Barbra Banda was a masterstroke, and Seb Hines' coaching was also a major factor in the team's success.

The Pride will be hoping to continue their progress in the 2025 season, and they will be confident of challenging for the NWSL title with Banda leading the line.