At just 25 years old, Banda entered the tournament with an impressive track record. Over the past year, she was awarded the title of BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year, netted the decisive goal for Orlando Pride in the NWSL Championship, and became Africa’s top scorer in Olympic football history, regardless of gender.
Despite her accomplishments, Banda had to wait an extended period to showcase her skills on the Wafcon stage.
Having been an unused substitute for the Copper Queens in 2018, she missed the 2020 tournament due to the pandemic and was sidelined in 2022 because of confusion surrounding gender eligibility rules—a situation that was later clarified.
However, Banda’s first appearance on the continental stage sent a jolt of alarm through the Moroccan defense, as three defenders backed away while she advanced from midway to the edge of the penalty area.
Her shot was on target but should have been an easy save for goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi, who mishandled it, allowing it to slip past her and deliver an explosive start to the match.
Nevertheless, Morocco, who controlled over 70% of possession, quickly bounced back.
Initially, referee Shamirah Nabadda overlooked a foul by Grace Chanda on midfielder Najat Badri in the box. However, the VAR prompted a review, leading Nabadda to reverse her decision.
Jraidi confidently converted the penalty in the 12th minute, igniting cheers in the Olympic Stadium, the same venue that will host the final on July 26.
Banda then demonstrated her playmaking ability just 15 minutes later, delivering a precise pass to Racheal Kundananji of Bay FC, Africa’s highest-priced player. Kundananji coolly finished past Er-Rmichi, showcasing the depth of talent on the field.
In first-half stoppage time, it seemed Banda was ready to score again at the back post, but Morocco’s Hanane Ait El Haj executed a remarkable headed clearance to deny her.