When South African forward Gabriela Salgado suffered a severe leg injury during the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semifinal match between the two teams in Morocco, some members of Nigeria’s Super Falcons paid her a visit in the hospital.
During Tuesday’s intense match, Salgado was taken off on a stretcher in the 88th minute after sustaining what was later determined to be a left leg mid-shaft fracture. The Mohamed VI University Hospital in Casablanca has since performed successful surgery on her, according to the South African Football Association.
Salgado will be sidelined for the rest of the year while she recovers, according to the federation. Both teams were greatly impacted by the injury, and players were clearly distressed while Salgado was being treated on the field by medics.
Later, Michelle Alozie’s late goal gave Nigeria a 2-1 victory.
On Wednesday, a group of players led by Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade paid a visit to Gabriela Salgado at the hospital. The team showed her support by giving her a signed 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,” the team wrote in a note they gave her. “Our immediate thoughts are solely with her for comfort, care, and the recovery journey ahead. We are holding Gabriela, her teammates, her family and close friends in our hearts, sending our deepest wishes for strength and resilience.
“The spirit of competition instantly fades in moments like these, replaced by a shared sense of care for a fellow athlete. “As fellow members of this football community, The Super Falcons NGR stands firmly alongside Banyana Banyana in solidarity and support.
“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 the team and community.”
Nigeria hopes to win a record-tying 10th continental championship when they play hosts Morocco in the WAFCON final on Saturday.
