Chijioke Gabriel
Players of Nigeria’s Super Falcons visited Banyana Banyana winger Gabriela Salgado on Wednesday at the Mohamed VI University Hospital in Casablanca, Morocco, following her injury during the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semifinal clash between the two teams.
Some Super Falcons players were visibly emotional after Salgado’s late-second-half injury in Tuesday’s (22 July) 2-1 victory over South Africa at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium. Their hospital visit was marked by a touching gesture as they presented Salgado with a signed Super Falcons jersey.
“The entire Super Falcons of Nigeria family, from players and coaches to staff, were profoundly saddened to learn of the serious injury sustained by Gabriela Salgado during yesterday’s match,” read a statement from the Nigerian team. “Our immediate thoughts are solely with her for comfort, care, and the recovery journey ahead. The spirit of competition instantly fades in moments like these, replaced by a shared sense of care for a fellow athlete.”
The statement further emphasised solidarity between the teams: “As fellow members of this football community, the Super Falcons stand firmly alongside Banyana Banyana in support. Our collective wish is for Gabriela’s steady healing, renewed strength, and a return to the pitch when she is ready.”
Salgado, who suffered a fracture of the mid-shaft of her left leg during the match, underwent successful surgery at the Mohamed VI University Hospital. Banyana Banyana’s team doctor, Dr. Lindi Mokoena, confirmed she will be sidelined for the rest of the year.
“Gabi’s operation went very well, and we are grateful for the exceptional care she has received here in Morocco. She remains in the hospital while recovering and will travel home with the team next week,” Dr. Mokoena said.
The entire Banyana Banyana squad visited Salgado at the hospital after her condition was stabilised, ensuring their teammate felt the team’s unwavering support during her recovery.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also sent a heartfelt message, expressing national pride and support for Salgado:
“Today, our thoughts are with Banyana Banyana’s Gabriela Salgado as we wish her a comfortable and speedy recovery from her traumatic injury. Gabriela is a woman of deep faith, bravery, and skill on the pitch, and the nation stands behind her,” his statement read.
Ramaphosa also congratulated Nigeria’s Super Falcons for their victory and extended best wishes to both Nigeria and Morocco for Saturday’s final.
Banyana Banyana have been granted a day off to regroup and recover emotionally after the semifinal defeat. They will resume training on Thursday as they prepare to face Ghana in the third-place playoff at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.