Canadas Kone Banned for 5 Games After Leg Injury

June 24, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Canadas Kone Banned for 5 Games After Leg Injury

Qatar Player Receives Five-Match Ban for Tackle on Canadian Midfielder

A FIFA disciplinary committee has issued a five-match ban to Qatar player Assim Madibo for his tackle on Canada midfielder Ismael Kone during their World Cup match in Vancouver last Thursday. The suspension was handed down due to serious foul play.

Madibo was given a straight red card for the incident, which resulted in Kone suffering a broken leg. The Canadian player underwent surgery and is expected to make a speedy recovery. Madibo will be absent from Qatar’s remaining World Cup matches, including their upcoming match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The FIFA committee stated that the decision was subject to appeal. Canada’s coach, Jesse Marsch, reported that Madibo visited Kone in his dressing room after the game to apologize in person. The incident has been met with support from fans and fellow players, as evidenced by the outpouring of well-wishes on social media.

Madibo also made a visit to Kone, along with Qatar’s sports minister, to check on his health following the injury. This gesture was seen as an example of sportsmanship and a demonstration of strong relationships between teams.

Source: Al Jazeera