Qatar International Banned for Five Matches After Opponent's Serious Injury

Qatar national team midfielder Assim Madibo has been handed a five-match ban for the reckless tackle that resulted in a severe injury to Ismael Kone during their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Canada, FIFA announced.

The hosts secured a dominant 6-0 victory in the second-round Group B match in Vancouver. Madibo received a red card in the 56th minute after a dangerous challenge fractured Kone's left leg. Kone was subsequently hospitalized and underwent surgery. The midfielder missed Qatar's final World Cup qualifier, a 4-2 loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina last night, and will serve the remainder of his suspension in upcoming official FIFA-sanctioned matches.