World Cup 2026: Ismael Kone is carried off on a stretcher with a possible leg injury against Qatar


Ismail Kone, Canada's midfielder, suffered a severe leg injury during Canada's World Cup match against Qatar, which required him to be transported on a stretcher. The incident occurred about ten minutes into the second half, when Qatari player Assim Madibo interfered with him. Kony appeared to be in severe pain, holding his left leg, and Canadian medical staff rushed to provide assistance. It wasn't long before medical staff brought the stretcher, while his colleagues gathered around him as he received treatment. Kony bid farewell to the fans with a gesture with his hand while he was being transported, and his left leg was in an air splint. Several players from both teams were affected by his transfer. Assim Madibo appeared concerned while treating Kone, as he was initially assessed as deserving of a yellow card, but after reviewing the incident, it was raised to a red card. The television broadcast did not show a replay of that footage, indicating the injury may have been serious. In a sporting gesture, Canadian striker Tajon Buchanan joined Assim Madibo's teammates in offering support. Qatar lost another player in the 33rd minute after Homam Ahmed received a red card. This resulted in the match ending with only nine players. Kone's place was replaced by Nathan Saliba, who scored five minutes after coming on, and lifted Kone's shirt in celebration. The match ended with Canada winning 6-0, making this its first victory in the history of the World Cup. However, Kone's injury was still the topic of conversation, as some altercations took place between the two teams after the final whistle. Canada coach Jesse Marsh and Qatar coach Julian Lopetegui were not on friendly terms during their post-match handshake, according to a report by The Athletic's Tom Bogert. This story will be updated later.

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