By Deborah Nnamdi
Several players from Nigeria’s Super Falcons have visited South African forward Gabriela Salgado, who suffered a serious injury during Tuesday’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semi-final clash in Morocco.
Salgado was stretchered off in the 88th minute following a gruesome leg injury that left players from both teams visibly shaken.
Despite the emotional moment, Nigeria clinched a dramatic 2-1 win thanks to a late goal from Gloria Alozie, securing a place in the tournament final.
The South African Football Association later confirmed that Salgado sustained a mid-shaft fracture of her left leg. She underwent successful surgery at the Mohamed VI University Hospital in Casablanca and is expected to be sidelined for the remainder of the year.
In a gesture of solidarity, Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade led a group of players to visit Salgado at the hospital on Wednesday. During the visit, they presented her with a signed Super Falcons jersey.
“The entire Super Falcons family—players, coaches, and staff—were deeply saddened by Gabriela Salgado’s injury,” a team statement said.
“We hold her, her teammates, and her loved ones in our thoughts, and send our heartfelt wishes for strength and healing.”
The statement emphasized that moments like these transcend competition, highlighting the importance of compassion and unity in sport: “We stand firmly alongside Banyana Banyana in solidarity.”
Nigeria will face host nation Morocco in Saturday’s final as they aim for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
