The challenge on the Canada midfielder’s serious leg injury is now to be punished by Assim Madibo, Qatar midfielder, who has been suspended from the FIFA World Cup for five matches.
It took place after Canada’s emphatic defeat of Qatar (6-0) last week in Vancouver. Kone was hit with a straight red card, after being tackled from behind in a tackle that left his left leg with a broken tibia and fibula. Later FIFA’s disciplinary committee confirmed a five-match ban following the serious foul play, that would see Madibo’s continued play in the rest of the tournament suspended.
The suspension also kept him out of Qatar’s next World Cup match, in which the nation hosting the 2022 tournament lost 3-1 to Bosnia and Herzegovina. FIFA said the judgment will be appealed.
Injury damped down Canada’s first ever World Cup win. Kone was taken off the pitch in a stretcher following the challenge, and players were instantly hoping for the best. The midfielder recognised fans by waving to the crowd that he was being taken off for treatment.
Canada substitute Nathan Saliba dedicated his goal to Kone by wearing a replica of his midfielder’s jersey, celebrating his achievement. At the same time, Madibo was visibly emotional after the clash, and in tears on the pitch, after “the incident”.
Canada’s former WCBA coach Jesse Marsch subsequently revealed that Madibo personally came to the dressing room to apologise to Kone after the game. Kone later posted a social media message, expressing gratitude to the supporters and prayers of the fans.