A Brutal Tackle United Them: Canada Aims to Win Group for Kone: "We'll Go All Out"

Jesse Marsch's squad is now determined to fight for their 24-year-old Sassuolo midfielder.

Kone was stretchered off the field after a challenge from Qatari midfielder Assim Madibo in the 51st minute of the match in Vancouver. Kone received oxygen during treatment and waved to the crowd as he was carried off the pitch.

Kone is the third Canadian international in a short period to suffer a similar injury. Tajon Buchanan broke his leg during preparations for the 2024 Copa America, and Modse Bombito sustained the same injury last October. “It’s a tough moment, as it has happened to several players already. We will be there for Kone. We will go all out and try to win the group for him,” striker Cyle Larin was quoted by DPA.

The Sassuolo midfielder has already undergone surgery, after which Bombito visited him in the hospital. Bombito, having recovered from the same injury, is vying for his first start in the lineup, which could come in the direct battle for Group B victory against Switzerland (June 24 at 9:00 PM CEST).