As the anticipation builds for the Paris Olympics 2024, a thrilling showdown is set to take place in Nice, France. The enigmatic US women's soccer team will face off against the upstart team from Zambia in what promises to be an unforgettable match.

Traditionally, the US women's team has had little trouble against nations with limited soccer traditions. However, this game is different, as the unbeaten Orlando Pride leads the NWSL standings, propelled by their star player Barbra Banda from Zambia. Banda, who tops the list of top scorers in the NWSL, has been making waves in the soccer world with her impressive skills.

Banda's success is no surprise, as she showcased her talent three years ago in Tokyo, scoring a hat-trick against the Netherlands and another against China. Her exceptional performance caught the attention of Orlando Pride, who signed her earlier this year for a staggering transfer fee of $740,000.

While an upset victory for Zambia would indeed be historic, it is important to note that they suffered a loss against the Netherlands in their Olympic opener in Tokyo, despite Banda's remarkable hat-trick. They managed to secure a draw with China through Banda's efforts but were ultimately eliminated from the tournament with a defeat at the hands of Brazil.

The US women's team, on the other hand, has not looked as dominant as in previous years during their pre-Olympic friendlies. Their recent matches against Mexico and Costa Rica ended with narrow victories and goalless draws, raising questions about their offensive capabilities.

One player to watch for the US team is Naomi Girma, a talented central defender who has been making a name for herself. Girma, only 24 years old, has already been recognized for her outstanding performances, winning multiple awards, including the NWSL Rookie of the Year and Defender of the Year honors.

The clash between Girma and Banda is expected to be a highlight of the match. Girma's defensive prowess and ability to shut down potent attacking forces will be put to the test against Banda's unstoppable scoring ability.

While this match serves as a precursor to the opening ceremony, it has all the ingredients for a thrilling contest. The clash between one of the world's best offensive forces and one of the world's most formidable defensive walls is sure to provide spectators with a high-scoring barnburner.

Although the bigger challenges lie ahead for the US women's team, with Germany and Australia on the horizon, Thursday's match against Zambia should not be underestimated. It presents an opportunity for both teams to showcase their skills and set the tone for their Olympic campaigns.

As the countdown to the Paris Olympics official kickoff on Friday begins, all eyes will be on Nice, where the immovable object of the US women's team collides with the unstoppable force of Zambia's Barbra Banda. A clash of titans awaits, and fans are in for a football extravaganza.