Salgado Rushed to Hospital Following Serious Injury in WAFCON Semi-Final
Thulani Ngwenya, the Chief Medical Officer of SAFA, has reported that Gabriela Salgado sustained a severe injury during the semi-final match of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) against Nigeria on Tuesday and was immediately rushed to a hospital in Morocco.
The incident, which took place in the 83rd minute, caused visible distress among her Banyana Banyana teammates and the entire South African bench.
In an exciting and fast-paced match held at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Banyana Banyana ultimately fell short, losing 2-1 to their longtime rivals, Nigeria, thus missing out on defending their title.
Nigeria secured their winning goal through Michelle Alozie just moments after Salgado was carried off the field during stoppage time.
The teams remained tied at 1-1 for a considerable part of the second half. Nigeria’s captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, scored first with a penalty in the 45th minute. In a spirited comeback, coach Desiree Ellis’s team responded, with Linda Motlhalo equalizing from the spot in the 60th minute.
Regarding Salgado’s health, Dr. Ngwenya stated, “Gabby suffered a severe injury during the match and was taken to the hospital for further assessment and treatment. We are currently unsure about the full extent of her injury, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”
SAFA president Danny Jordaan also weighed in on the situation as well as the team’s performance. “First and foremost, we wish Gabriela Salgado a swift recovery. We are all eager for the doctors’ updates,” Jordaan noted. He also commended the team, stating, “Banyana Banyana displayed remarkable resilience and a courageous performance as defending WAFCON champions. You have solidified your place among the elite teams on the continent, and we take great pride in your efforts.”
