Madibo banned for five matches

Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo has received a five-match suspension after the challenge that left Canada’s Ismael Kone with a serious leg injury during the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Madibo, 29, was sent off during Qatar’s 6-0 defeat to Canada last Thursday after a tackle on Kone, which resulted in the Canadian midfielder suffering a broken leg.

Following an investigation into the incident, FIFA’s disciplinary committee imposed a five-match ban for serious foul play, although the decision remains subject to appeal.

The injury has dealt a major setback to Canada’s World Cup campaign, with Kone ruled out for the remainder of the tournament.

Medical examinations confirmed that the 24-year-old sustained fractures to both the tibia and fibula in his lower left leg.