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Canada honors Ismael Kone after leg injury during World Cup match

3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 8:10 AM

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

Canada honors Ismael Kone after leg injury during World Cup match

Summary

In a World Cup match on June 18, Ismael Kone of Canada suffered a severe leg injury following a tackle by Qatar's Assim Madibo. This injury prompted a lengthy delay, resulting in Madibo receiving a red card. Kone was taken off the pitch in an air cast, with his participation in the tournament now in doubt. Following the incident, Canadian substitute Nathan Saliba scored and celebrated by holding up Kone's jersey and forming a number 8 with his hands, honoring his injured teammate. Canada continued to dominate the match against Qatar, leading to an emotional moment for the team and fans.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Ismael Kone injured after a tackle by Qatar's Assim Madibo.
•Kone left the pitch in an air cast due to the injury.
•Nathan Saliba scored shortly after replacing Kone.
•Saliba celebrated by holding up Kone's jersey and making a number 8.
•Canada is in a strong position in the match against Qatar.

Latest Updates

8:10 AMYahoo Sports — Nathan Saliba honors injured Ismaël Koné in heartbreaking World Cup moment after wonder strike
12:28 AMYahoo Sports — Watch Canada's tribute to injured Ismael Kone after veteran midfielder exits game with gruesome leg injury
11:42 PMYahoo Sports — Canadian goalscorer holds up Ismaël Koné’s jersey in tribute after star’s brutal injury

What they're saying

"
Nathan Saliba delivered one of Canada’s most touching World Cup moments shortly after coming on for the injured Ismaël Koné. Canada were already in control against Qatar at BC Place in Vancouver, but the mood shifted when Koné was forced off with a serious leg injury in the second half.
— Yahoo Sports