Banyana Banyana winger Gabriela Salgado has penned an emotional message of gratitude to the multitudes of people who have shown love, care and support for her after she sustained a horrific injury at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) tournament.
Salgado suffered a fractured leg in Banyana’s 2-1 defeat to Nigeria in the semi-finals last Tuesday in Casablanca and had to be stretched off in the 87th minute to be rushed off to hospital, where she eventually had a successful surgery performed on her leg.
She received outpouring concern from the football community at large, including opponents, the Super Falcons themselves and the Black Queens of Ghana who paid her a visit in hospital.
The President of the Republic of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa also sent his well wishes to the JVW FC stalwart who will be out for the rest of the year nursing the leg.
“Overwhelmed with gratitude,” wrote Salgado.
“I just want to take a moment to say a massive thank you to everyone who has reached out with love, support, and prayers since my injury. It has been an emotional few days, but I truly feel held by the kindness around me.
“To my family, friends & teammates back home, your messages and calls have kept my spirit strong. Thank you for standing by me. To my Banyana family, from the team manager, doctors, physio, coaches, and to every single player, thank you for the exceptional care, support, and love you have shown me. You made me feel safe, seen, and truly cared for.
“To the teams from Nigeria, Ghana & CAF, your kindness and concern did not go unnoticed. Thank you for your sportsmanship and support. To the amazing doctors, nurses, and hospital staff, thank you for taking such good care of me. I am truly grateful.
“I am still processing everything and recovering, but I will respond to messages and check-ins as soon as I can. Just know that I feel every bit of love sent my way.”
