The Qatar Football Association has extended its support to Canada midfielder Ismael Kone, sharing a 'Get Well Soon' message for the injured player on social media after he was ruled out for the remainder of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Qatar FA's Message
The association posted a tweet expressing well wishes for Kone's recovery following the injury sustained during Canada's 6-0 victory over Qatar.
Injury and Surgery
Kone successfully underwent surgery to repair a fracture in his left leg after being injured in the 51st minute of the Group B match at BC Place in Vancouver. Canada Soccer confirmed the surgery was successful and that Kone is expected to make a full recovery but will miss the rest of the World Cup.
Canada head coach Jesse Marsch stated that Kone had already received sedatives by the time medical staff reached him.
Kone's Response
The 24-year-old expressed gratitude to God, his teammates, and supporters on Instagram, thanking everyone for their love and prayers. He emphasized the brotherhood he shares with his teammates and promised to return soon.
Match Incident
Kone was stretchered off after a heavy challenge from Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo, who received a straight red card following a VAR review. Qatar was reduced to nine men after Homam Al Amin was also sent off earlier.
The BC Place crowd applauded Kone as he was carried off the field. Midfielder Nathan Saliba, who replaced Kone, paid tribute by holding up Kone's shirt after scoring Canada's fourth goal.
Dominant Victory
Canada secured their first-ever World Cup win with a 6-0 thrashing of Qatar. Jonathan David scored a historic hat-trick, the first by a Canadian in World Cup history, while Cyle Larin opened the scoring. An own goal from Qatar added to Canada's tally.
The match was overshadowed by Kone's injury but highlighted Canada's dominant performance and Qatar's disciplinary struggles.
