FIFA penalizes player breaking Canadian midfielder leg
FIFA bans Assim Madibo 5 matches. Qatar midfielder tackled Ismael Kone, breaking leg in World Cup 2026 group stage.
In June 24 notice, FIFA said ban applies to official matches of Qatar national team. Madibo action classified "serious foul play" under disciplinary code. FIFA confirmed Qatar player has right to appeal to Appeal Committee.
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Assim Madibo (white shirt) tackles, causing serious injury to Ismael Kone in Qatar 0-6 loss to Canada, matchday 2 of Group B, World Cup 2026 in Vancouver, British Columbia on June 18. Photo: Reuters
Ban not harshest penalty FIFA ever gave at World Cup. At 2014 tournament in Brazil, Uruguay striker Luis Suarez banned 9 matches, barred from football activity for 4 months for biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini. In 1994, Italy defender Mauro Tassotti banned 8 matches for elbowing Spain striker Luis Enrique.
At BC Place in Vancouver on June 18, Madibo stamped on Kone shin, sending Canadian player down. Seeing broken leg, Kone shocked.
Madibo initially got yellow card. After VAR review, referee changed to straight red card for dangerous tackle. Kone left on stretcher, went to Vancouver hospital.
Kone brought onto pitch in wheelchair before Canada - Switzerland match, final round of Group B, World Cup 2026 at Vancouver, Canada on June 24, 2026. Photo: AP
After surgery, Kone posted long message on social media. Expressed faith, gratitude to supporters, readiness for challenges. Confirmed he will become assistant coach to support Canada from sidelines at World Cup 2026.
Player born 2002 reappeared on pitch during Canada 1-2 loss to Switzerland in final Group B match on June 24. Before kickoff, Kone sat in wheelchair, received standing ovation from fans.
1-2 defeat cost co-hosts top spot to Switzerland. Still, they achieved main goal: qualifying for knockout stage as runners-up. Canada faces Group A runner-up in round of 16 in Los Angeles on June 28.
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