South Africa midfielder Gabriela Salgado underwent a successful surgery on Wednesday after suffering a horrific injury during the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations semifinal clash against Nigeria.
Late in the match, the Banyana Banyana midfielder landed awkwardly on the pitch, resulting in a fracture to the back of her left leg, and was stretchered off the field.
Now, Gabriela has undergone surgery at Mohamed VI University Hospital in Casablanca to correct his injury as she aim for a swift return to action.
Meanwhile, the 27-year-old midfielder will reportedly not return to the field to play until early 2026.
Before being stretched off, the Banyana Banyana had held the Super Falcons to a 1-1 draw. However, her injury appears to have affected the team, succumbing to a defeat in Stoppage time.
Rasheedat Ajibade gave the West African Nation a first-half lead before Linda Motlhalo responded after the break.
However, Michelle Alozie won it late for her team with a fortuitous long-range strike to help Nigeria set up a final with the hosts, who beat Ghana in a second game.
South Africa will now shift their attention to the third place match against West African outfit, Ghana.
