Barbra Banda’s Comeback Goal and DiBernardo’s Return Highlight NWSL Weekend

FolioPitch.com – 11 July 2026 | Barbra Banda marks injury return with 12th goal Vanessa DiBernardo back from maternity leave in a memorable NWSL Friday night. The Orlando Pride forward, who had been sidelined since late May with an undisclosed injury, came off the bench in the 75th minute and scored just 10 minutes later to seal a 3-0 victory over the Kansas City Current. Her goal, her league-leading 12th of the season, came after a defensive blunder by Current goalkeeper Marisa Jordan, who whiffed on an attempted clearance, leaving Banda with an open net.

The night was also significant for the Current, as midfielder Vanessa DiBernardo made her first NWSL appearance since giving birth to her daughter, Charlie, in January. She entered the match in the 82nd minute, marking a triumphant return after more than a year away from the league. Banda’s injury return was closely watched; she had missed nearly half of the 2025 season with a hip adductor injury but came back strong this season. Barbra Banda marks injury return with 12th goal Vanessa DiBernardo back from maternity leave — a storyline of resilience and success.

Orlando’s first goal came from Brazilian legend Marta, who scored her 50th goal for the Pride across all competitions. She was given too much space outside the box and rifled a shot into the far corner. The second goal was a header from defender Hannah Anderson off a corner kick, untouched. Banda’s goal was the exclamation point, showcasing the depth of the Pride attack. The win keeps Orlando near the top of the standings, while Kansas City faces defensive questions.

Vanessa DiBernardo’s return adds experience to the Current midfield. Her last NWSL game was over a year ago, on June 20, 2025. Her presence will be crucial as the team pushes for a playoff spot. For Banda, her injury return came after she missed the final minutes of a May 29 victory. Uncertainty surrounded her timeline, but she looked sharp in limited minutes. Barbra Banda marks injury return with 12th goal Vanessa DiBernardo back from maternity leave — a night of comebacks that thrilled fans.

Banda’s scoring rate is impressive: 12 goals in 13 matches this season, compared to 8 goals in 16 matches last year before her injury. Her return to full fitness will be vital for Orlando’s championship aspirations. The Pride’s attacking trio of Marta, Banda, and Alex Morgan is among the most dangerous in the league. Meanwhile, Kansas City will look to rebound with DiBernardo integrating back into the lineup.

The match also featured a viral moment on social media: a video of Banda’s easy tap-in was shared widely, captioned A wide open net doesn’t stand a chance vs. Barbra Banda. Another clip highlighted Marta’s goal, with a warning: Rule #1: Never give Marta THAT much time. These moments encapsulate the excitement of the NWSL season.

In conclusion, the evening showcased the power of perseverance. Barbra Banda marks injury return with 12th goal Vanessa DiBernardo back from maternity leave — two players at different stages of their careers, both overcoming personal challenges to impact their teams. Their stories resonate beyond the field, inspiring fans and teammates alike. As the NWSL season progresses, all eyes will be on Banda’s continued form and DiBernardo’s reintegration into the Current’s system.