Players of Nigeria’s Super Falcons, led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade, popular known with her new nickname ‘Mummy GO’ have paid a heartfelt visit to South African midfielder Gabriela Salgado at the Mohamed VI University Hospital in Casablanca, where she is recovering from a leg fracture sustained during the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semifinal clash.
Salgado, 27, was stretchered off during the intense 2-1 semi-final defeat to Nigeria after suffering a severe injury in the closing stages of the second half. Doctors later confirmed she fractured the mid-shaft of her left leg and underwent surgery on Wednesday.
Although the operation was successful, Salgado is expected to be sidelined for the rest of the year.
In a rare and touching show of sportsmanship, several members of the Super Falcons squad visited Salgado in the hospital on Thursday. The Nigerian players not only offered her words of encouragement but also presented her with a Super Falcons jersey signed by the entire team.
“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,” a team statement said.
More than Rivals. Always Human. 💚💛
Yesterday, we fought for our countries. Today, we stand for something greater — life, health, and humanity.
The Super Falcons of Nigeria paid a heartfelt visit to South Africa’s Salgado after her injury during the match. Because beyond the… pic.twitter.com/DfsBgqGlPz
— The Super Falcons Show (@Superfalconshow) July 23, 2025
The visit has since drawn praise on social media, with fans commending the Falcons for demonstrating class and compassion despite the high-stakes nature of the competition.
