The snap of bone was audible across Vancouver Stadium. Canada had just secured their first-ever World Cup finals victory, thrashing Qatar 6-0, but the triumph was shattered eight minutes into the second half when midfielder Ismael Kone was caught late by Assim Madibo. His leg visibly broken, the 24-year-old Sassuolo player lay anguished and in shock as team-mates rushed to him and a scuffle broke out between the sides. Madibo stood with his hands on his head.
“It was right in front of us, and everyone could hear the bone snap,” said Canada boss Jesse Marsch. Kone, who had previously played for Watford, lifted his thumb to the crowd as he was carried off on a stretcher. His World Cup is over. Marsch confirmed that Madibo had apologised to Kone after the game.
“Canada's 6-0 win over Qatar is overshadowed by Ismael Kone's horrifying broken leg in front of a packed stadium.”
The injury ended a moment that should have been pure joy. Canada, 40 years after their first World Cup appearance, had thrashed Qatar in front of a packed and loud stadium. Three goals before the incident, three after – including one from substitute Nathan Saliba, who held up Kone’s shirt as he celebrated. During the second-half hydration break, Marsch was in tears. “Everybody’s a little shaken by the whole experience because of the nature of the injury, and also because Ismael is a big part of the heart of our team,” he said. “He will be back stronger than ever.”
Canada are now almost certain of a place in the last 32. Mexico confirmed their spot earlier in the day with a 1-0 win over South Korea. Elsewhere, Switzerland ran riot over Bosnia and Herzegovina 4-1 in Inglewood, while Czechia drew 1-1 with South Africa in Atlanta. England, who beat Croatia 4-2 on Wednesday, face Ghana on Tuesday.
But the lasting image of the day was Kone, waving to supporters as he left the pitch. “It is a statement about Ismael, but also this is an incredible team,” said Marsch. “I have been telling people for years about the character of this group. You got to see how everyone was crushed but we had to find a way to stay focused.”