African duo Barbra Banda and Temwa Chawinga nominated for 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or award

Africa will be represented in the race for the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or, with Zambia captain Barbra Banda and Malawi striker Temwa Chawinga included among the 30 nominees for the prestigious award.

The two African forwards earned their places on the shortlist following impressive performances at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where both played key roles for their respective national teams.

Despite Zambia’s early exit from the tournament, Banda made a significant impact with her outstanding attacking displays. The Copper Queens captain scored five goals in three matches, including a remarkable four-goal haul against Egypt.

Banda’s nomination marks the third time she has been shortlisted for the Women’s Ballon d’Or. She was first nominated in 2024, finishing 12th, before placing 14th in the 2025 edition.

Chawinga, meanwhile, has received her first-ever nomination for the prestigious individual award after playing a starring role in Malawi’s historic run at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The Malawian striker was instrumental in helping the Scorchers reach the final on their debut appearance at the tournament, an achievement that made them one of the standout teams of the competition.

Chawinga finished the tournament as the leading scorer with five goals, earning the Golden Boot and further strengthening her case for a place among the world’s best female footballers.

With both Banda and Chawinga recognised among the 30 nominees, Africa will have strong representation as the continent’s leading stars compete for one of football’s most coveted individual honours.