In a remarkable show of sportsmanship and solidarity, Nigeria’s Super Falcons have visited South African winger Gabriela Salgado at the Mohamed VI University Hospital in Casablanca, Morocco, following her serious injury in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semifinal clash.
Salgado, 27, was stretchered off during the closing stages of Tuesday’s intense semi-final encounter, which saw Nigeria edge South Africa 2-1. The winger later underwent surgery on Wednesday to treat a fractured mid-shaft in her left leg.
Hospital sources confirmed that the operation was successful, but the injury is expected to rule her out for the remainder of the year.
In a heartwarming gesture, several Super Falcons players personally visited Salgado at the hospital, offering words of encouragement and gifting her a team jersey signed by the entire Nigerian squad.
“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,” the team said in an official statement.
The Nigerian players’ gesture has been widely praised by fans and officials as a strong reminder of unity and respect in African women’s football, even amid fierce competition.
