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Super Falcons Visit Gabriela Salgado as player Undergoes Successful Surgery Following WAFCON Injury
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
South Africa international and Banyana Banyana winger Gabriela Salgado has undergone successful surgery after sustaining a serious leg injury during Tuesday’s semi-final clash against Nigeria at the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Salgado, 26, suffered a mid-shaft fracture of the left leg late in the second half of the tightly contested encounter at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium, which ended in a 2-1 victory for the Super Falcons of Nigeria.
Following swift medical attention on the pitch, Salgado was stretchered off and transported to Mohamed VI University Hospital in Casablanca, where the procedure was performed on Wednesday morning.
“Gabi sustained a fracture of the mid-shaft of her left leg and underwent successful surgery in Casablanca,” said Banyana Banyana team doctor, Dr. Lindi Mokoena.
“She will remain in hospital for a few days to recover and will rejoin the team before flying back home next week. We are incredibly grateful to CAF, the hospital staff, and our medical team for their professionalism and care.”
Salgado will be sidelined for the remainder of the year, but is in stable condition and recovering well.
The injury prompted an outpouring of support from teammates, fans, officials, and even opponents. The entire Banyana Banyana squad visited Salgado in hospital shortly after her surgery.
Among those sending messages of support was South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who posted a heartfelt note on social media:
“Our thoughts are with Gabriela Salgado today as we wish her a comfortable and speedy recovery. Gabriela, your bravery and faith are inspiring. We are proud of Banyana Banyana’s performance and confident they will bounce back stronger. We also send our best wishes to Nigeria and Morocco ahead of Saturday’s final.”
In a touching act of solidarity, several Super Falcons players visited Salgado on Wednesday, delivering a signed Nigeria jersey and offering their support in person.
“Our entire team was deeply moved by Gabriela’s injury,” read a statement from the Super Falcons of Nigeria.
“In moments like these, the spirit of competition fades, and the football community unites in care. We wish her strength and full recovery and stand in solidarity with Banyana Banyana during this time.”
Salgado’s injury marks a difficult moment in what has been a strong showing for South Africa, the defending champions, at WAFCON 2024.
Banyana Banyana will now regroup as they prepare for the third-place play-off against Ghana on Friday at the same venue.