Salgado’s Severe Injury Overshadows South Africa’s WAFCON Semifinal Loss

According to SAFA reports, the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations semifinal in Casablanca took a dramatic turn when South African striker Gabriela Salgado suffered a severe leg injury in the 84th minute — leading to Nigeria’s 2-1 victory over the defending champions.

The incident occurred when Salgado jumped for an aerial challenge and landed awkwardly after contact with a Nigerian defender — causing her to collapse in pain on the field.

Team doctor Thulani Ngwenya stated that Salgado was immediately rushed to the hospital for further examination, though the extent of the injury remains uncertain.

“Injury is one of the biggest challenges for any athlete. To see a broken shin on the field, knowing it can happen to me or my teammates, was very sad,” expressed Nigeria captain Rasheedat Ajibade.

Before the incident, the match was closely contested with Ajibade scoring from the penalty spot in the first half and Linda Motlhalo equalizing through a penalty in the 60th minute. Nigeria ultimately secured victory through Michelle Alozie’s goal in injury time.

Nigeria will face hosts Morocco in the final, while South Africa will compete for the bronze medal.