CAPE TOWN – The South African Football Association (SAFA) has provided an update on injured striker Gabriela Salgado following Banyana Banyana’s painful 2-1 loss to Nigeria in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semi-final.
Salgado was stretchered off in the 83rd minute following a traumatic incident, just minutes before Nigeria took the lead through Michelle Alozie in stoppage time.
The Super Falcons took the lead through Rasheedat Ajibade’s 45th-minute penalty, before the defending WAFCON champions equalised via Linda Motlhalo’s spot-kick in the 60th minute.
The match seemed destined for extra time before Nigeria snatched the lead, leaving a bitter sweet outcome for coach Desiree Ellis’s charges at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco, on Tuesday night.
“Gabby had a serious injury during the game and was rushed to hospital immediately after the incident for further assessment and management,” said SAFA Chief Medical Officer Dr Thulani Ngwenya.
“The extent of the injury is unknown at this stage, and we will give an update once all the facts are known.”
SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan added: “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 either tonight or tomorrow,” he said.
“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.”
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