Alexia Cassar: Salgado’s return a major boost for club and country
5th February 2026
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JVW co-coach Alexia Cassar says Gabriela Salgado’s return from a long-term injury is a major boost for both club football and the national team.
Salgado has been sidelined for almost seven months after sustaining a mid-shaft fracture to her left leg during the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations semi-final clash against Nigeria.
Speaking to SABC Sport, Cassar said she is delighted that fans will soon see the influential midfielder back on the pitch.
“Having Gabby back is a massive boost, not only for our team but also for Banyana Banyana. We missed her winning mentality.
“She has been very diligent in her recovery, and I’m proud to say that you’ll be seeing her back on the field very soon,” said Cassar.
Cassar also reflected on how the team had to adapt during the second half of the Hollywoodbets Super League campaign without their star midfielder.
“It was very challenging at first, because we were looking for someone who could execute exactly like her. We then realised she is a unique player, so we allowed others to express themselves in their own way. That adjustment helped the team, and we saw senior players step up,” added Cassar.
With Salgado now fully fit, Cassar believes her return will have a positive impact on the league as a whole.
“We’re excited as a club, and I’m sure the whole nation is excited to see her back,” she added. “Her presence raises the standard of the league. She’s a fan favourite, and we’re going to see a different version of her—hungrier and ready to go,” she expressed.
