Banyana Banyana winger Gabriela Salgado is on the road to recovery after undergoing successful surgery at the Mohamed VI University Hospital in Casablanca, Morocco, following a serious injury during South Africa’s CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semifinal clash against Nigeria.

Salgado was stretchered off late in the second half of Tuesday night’s 2–1 loss to the Super Falcons at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium. Scans later confirmed she had suffered a mid-shaft fracture to her left leg, ruling her out of action for the rest of the year.

“She underwent a successful operation and is receiving excellent care,” said Banyana Banyana team doctor Dr. Lindi Mokoena. “We are deeply grateful to CAF and the medical staff at Mohamed VI University Hospital for their outstanding support.”

The Banyana squad visited Salgado shortly after her stabilisation on Tuesday night, and she will remain in hospital for a few more days before returning home with the team next week.

Messages of support have poured in from across the continent,  including from President Cyril Ramaphosa.

“Our thoughts are with Gabriela Salgado as she recovers from her traumatic injury,” Ramaphosa said in a statement. “We know her as a brave and skilled athlete, and the nation stands behind her. We also salute Banyana Banyana for their valiant performance.”

The Nigerian team echoed the sentiment, expressing deep sympathy. Several Super Falcons players were visibly emotional on the field after the injury, and a few visited Salgado in the hospital, gifting her a signed team jersey.

“The spirit of competition fades in moments like these,” read a statement from the Super Falcons. “Our thoughts are with Gabriela, her teammates and loved ones as she begins her healing journey.”

Banyana Banyana have been given a day’s rest and will resume training on Thursday ahead of their third-place playoff match against Ghana. Kick-off is at 21h00 (SA time) at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium.