Copper Queens midfielder Grace Chanda will have to wait until 2025 to make her debut for her new club, Orlando Pride, in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
The club announced today that Chanda has been placed on the season-ending injury list after suffering a ruptured quadriceps tendon in her right leg while representing Zambia at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The 26-year-old, who had been reported to be training with an injury in France, managed to play only 34 minutes in Zambia’s opening match against the USA, which ended in a 3-0 defeat. Following her return to the USA, the former Madrid CFF midfielder has begun working with the Orlando Pride medical team and their partners at Orlando Health.
“The midfielder has begun working with the Pride’s medical team and partners at Orlando Health to outline her recovery and rehabilitation programming.”
Orlando Pride confident Grace will return stronger
Despite the setback, the club remains optimistic about Chanda’s recovery.
“We are incredibly disappointed for Grace at this injury and how it occurred. Fortunately, she is under the best possible care with our medical and performance teams here at the club and through Orlando Health,” Orlando Pride VP of Soccer Operations and General Manager Haley Carter said.
Chanda has had limited playing time since last year, making only a few appearances for Madrid CFF before her move to Orlando Pride. She suffered an injury prior to the 2023 Women’s World Cup and has made only three appearances for Zambia since then.
Orlando Pride is prepared to wait for her debut, which is now likely to happen during the 2025 season.
“While her debut in purple will be later than planned, it’s imperative we prioritize her health and welfare through a safe and responsible return to the pitch. We’re behind Grace every step of the way and will support her throughout the entire recovery process. With our investment, resources, and performance environment, Grace will come out of this stronger and ready to make an impact in 2025,” the club stated.
