Salgado Rushed To Hospital After Serious Injury In WAFCON Semi-Final

SAFA Chief Medical Officer Thulani Ngwenya has confirmed that Gabriela Salgado suffered a serious injury during the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semi-final against Nigeria on Tuesday and was immediately rushed to a hospital in Morocco.

The incident, which occurred in the 83rd minute, visibly distressed her Banyana Banyana teammates and the entire South African bench.

In a dramatic and incident-filled match at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Banyana Banyana ultimately lost 2-1 to long-time rivals Nigeria, relinquishing their title as defending champions.

Nigeria scored their winning goal through Michelle Alozie just moments after Salgado was stretchered off the pitch in stoppage time.

The two teams were level at 1-1 for much of the second half. Nigeria’s captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 45th minute. However, coach Desiree Ellis’s team fought back, and Linda Motlhalo equalized with a penalty of her own in the 60th minute.

Giving an update on Salgado’s condition, Dr. Ngwenya stated, “Gabby had a serious injury during the game and was rushed to hospital immediately after the incident for further assessment and management. The extent of the injury is unknown at this stage, and we will provide an update once all the facts are known.”

SAFA president Danny Jordaan also commented on the situation and the team’s performance. “First of all, we would like to wish a speedy recovery to Gabriela Salgado. We are all waiting to hear what the doctors have to say,” Jordaan said. He went on to praise the team, adding, “Banyana Banyana fought very well, and it was a brave performance from the WAFCON defending champions. You have established yourselves as one of the best teams on the continent. We are proud of your efforts.”