The NWSL, Orlando Pride and NJ/NY Gotham FC have denounced the “hate language” thrown at Zambian striker Bar Brabanda during Sunday's match at Sports Illustration Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey.
“We are united in our message. This action is unacceptable and we have no place in the league or stadium,” they each said in separate statements issued Monday.
Gotham recognized that he was provoked when another fan reported the incident to stadium security during the game.
Security responded to the incident and spoke to at least one fan, but did not delete them.
Added security added to monitor sections for the rest of the game.
According to Gotham, no further incidents evolved.
With each league policy, Gotham filed an incident report with the NWSL on Sunday night to warn the claims.
Fans who identified him as the Gotham Season Ticket holder for Section 102 witnessed the alleged incident posted on Reddit on Monday.
The Reddit Post said, “One fan cried out after the banda fell and screamed, 'She shouldn't be on the field anyway!” I was happy to see security tell him, but what he got was a warning. ”
Gotham leaders apologized for the incident on Monday and reached out with pride in their support of Banda.
The NWSL and Gotham are continuing to investigate the incident and can consider “taking additional steps if appropriate under the league's Fan Code of Conduct.”
Gotham has reviewed security footage of the incident, and club representatives are in touch with fans who first reported the incident, a club spokesperson told the Post.
“Our venues are committed to ensuring that they are a safe and respectful environment for everyone, especially for athletes who represent the best of our sport,” the NWSL said. “Barbra Banda is an exceptional player and individual and the NWSL is extremely proud to be able to support her as a member of our league.
“As a league, we are committed to holding individuals accountable for conduct that violates standards and values, and to strengthen the inclusive spirit of the NWSL community.”
The 25-year-old Banda faced an anti-trance attack in November after scoring the winning goal at the 2024 NWSL Championship and was named the BBC World Footballer of the Year.
These online attacks are largely based on the 2022 controversy, with Banda, who was banned from playing that year's Women's Africa Cup, the qualifying event for the Women's Africa Cup, which officials denounced each other.
Banda performed at Zambia's 2023 World Cup.
Pride provided support to two Olympians who signed a four-year contract with Orlando before last season.
“Barbra is a standout role model and influential advocate for football both in Africa and here in America,” Pride said. “We look forward to continuing to congratulate and support her on the pitch.”
