SAFA provides update on Gabriela Salgado’s injury and recovery

SAFA has provided an update on Banyana Banyana attacker Gabriela Salgado, detailing the severe injury she sustained during the recent Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semi-final against Nigeria, and her post-operative condition.

Banyana Banyana’s quest to defend their continental title ended on Tuesday night with a 2-1 defeat to Nigeria. The Super Falcons secured their spot in the final against host nation Morocco, while Banyana will now compete for the bronze medal.

Prior to Nigeria’s winning goal, Banyana Banyana faced a significant setback when Gabriela Salgado suffered a serious injury.

But Dr Lindi Mokoena, the Banyana team doctor, confirmed on Wednesday that Salgado sustained a fracture of the mid-shaft of her left leg.

“Gabi underwent a successful surgery at the Mohamed VI University Hospital in Casablanca,” Dr Mokoena stated. “She will be out of action for the rest of the year, but we are pleased that she received exceptional care from the medical team of Banyana Banyana, CAF, and the hospital.”

Dr Mokoena also expressed gratitude for the medical support received: “We were fully confident and comfortable with the procedure being performed in Morocco and would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to CAF and the dedicated staff at the Mohamed VI University Hospital for their professionalism and outstanding support during this time.”

Meanwhile, the entire Banyana Banyana squad visited Salgado at the hospital on Tuesday night after her condition had stabilised following the injury.

In addition, South African president Cyril Ramaphosa conveyed his well wishes, stating, “Today, our thoughts are with Banyana Banyana’s @G_Salgado9 as we wish Gabriela a comfortable and speedy recovery from her traumatic injury in last night’s WAFCON semi-final against a victorious Nigeria. I know you’re a woman of deep and public faith, Gabriela, and you’re a woman of bravery and skill on the pitch. The nation wishes you well.” He also extended wishes to both finalists, Nigeria and Morocco.

The Super Falcons of Nigeria also extended their solidarity. Several Nigerian players were visibly distressed by Salgado’s injury during the match, with some even in tears. On Wednesday, a delegation of Super Falcons players visited Salgado in the hospital, presenting her with a signed jersey.

A statement from the Super Falcons team read: “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. 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. 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.”