Nigeria’s Super Falcons paid a compassionate visit to South Africa’s Gabriela Salgado on Wednesday, following the winger’s traumatic injury during Tuesday’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semi-final clash in Casablanca.
The emotional gesture took place at the Mohamed VI University Hospital, where Salgado underwent successful surgery after suffering a fractured mid-shaft of the left leg during the tightly contested encounter with Nigeria.
During the visit, the Falcons presented Salgado with a signed team jersey, offering a message of goodwill and unity. According to a statement released by the Falcons’s media officer Mary Akinsola on the team’s official X page, the entire Super Falcons delegation — including players, coaches, and staff — was “profoundly saddened” by the sight of Salgado being stretchered off in visible pain.
“Our immediate thoughts are solely with her for comfort, care, and the recovery journey ahead,” the statement read.
“We are holding Gabriela, her teammates, her family, and close friends in our hearts, sending our deepest wishes for strength and resilience.”
The statement also underscored the Super Falcons’ belief in compassion over competition:
“The spirit of competition instantly fades in moments like these, replaced by a shared sense of care for a fellow athlete.”
The team confirmed that some Nigerian players were visibly emotional during the match and expressed a strong desire to follow up with a personal hospital visit the next day.
“As fellow members of this football community, the Super Falcons stand firmly alongside Banyana Banyana in solidarity and support,” the statement concluded.
“Our collective wish is for Gabriela’s steady healing, renewed strength, and a return to the pitch when she is ready, surrounded by the unwavering support of her team and community.”
Salgado’s Surgery Successful, Recovery Underway
Providing a medical update, Banyana Banyana team doctor Dr. Lindi Mokoena confirmed Salgado had surgery on Wednesday and will be sidelined for the rest of 2025.
“Gabi sustained a fracture of the mid-shaft of her left leg during the fixture against Nigeria and underwent a successful surgery,” Dr. Mokoena said.
“She will be out of action for the rest of the year, but we are pleased she received exceptional care from the medical team of Banyana Banyana, CAF, and the hospital.”
Dr. Mokoena also commended the hospital staff and CAF officials, adding that the South African Football Association was fully confident in the procedure carried out in Morocco.
Continental Support and Presidential Message
Messages of support have continued to pour in for Salgado from across the continent, including from South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who hailed her resilience and courage.
“Today, our thoughts are with Banyana Banyana’s Gabriela Salgado as we wish her a comfortable and speedy recovery from her traumatic injury in last night’s WAFCON semi-final against a victorious Nigeria,” President Ramaphosa said.
“I know you’re a woman of deep and public faith, Gabriela, and a woman of bravery and skill on the pitch. The nation wishes you well.”
Salgado’s teammates also visited her in the hospital on Tuesday night after she was stabilised.
What’s Next
South Africa will face Ghana in the third-place match at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium on Friday night, while Nigeria will square off against hosts Morocco in the WAFCON final on Saturday at the same venue.