Qatar's Assim Madibo, the player whose tackle broke Canadian midfielder Ismael Kone's leg during a FIFA World Cup match, recently visited the injured star to check on his recovery, according to photos shared by the Qatar Football Association.
Madibo's visit and Kone's condition
Kone, 24, was seen smiling from a wheelchair as he met with Madibo, who was accompanied by Qatar's minister of sports, Khalifa Al Thani. The tackle occurred in the second half of Canada's 6-0 victory over Qatar on June 24, 2026, breaking Kone's tibia and fibula. He was stretchered off and underwent surgery to repair the injury.
Despite the severity of the incident, Kone has since rejoined the Canadian team and will be a rallying presence for Wednesday's Group B finale against Switzerland, which will determine the group winner.
Emotional aftermath and fan tribute
Television images showed Madibo visibly distraught after the foul, for which he received a red card. The injury sparked tensions, including a heated exchange between Canadian coach Jesse Marsch and his Qatari counterpart after the final whistle.
Canadian supporters group The Voyageurs plans to honor Kone with a tribute during Wednesday's match. They will distribute 3,000 placards featuring the number 8, Kone's jersey number, to be held up during the Canadian anthem before the contest against Switzerland.
Canada's lineup adjustments
With Kone unavailable, Marsch is expected to start 22-year-old Nathan Saliba as his positional replacement. Saliba scored shortly after substituting for Kone in the Qatar match. Additionally, centre back Moise Bombito's recovery from a broken leg has accelerated, making him a bigger factor. Coach Marsch also confirmed that captain Alphonso Davies is almost certain to make his 2026 World Cup debut against the Swiss.
