World Cup 2026: A day of tears, scuffles & history as injury mars Canada’s moment

It should have been a moment of pure happiness.

40 years after playing in their first World Cup, Canada impressively claimed their first win of the tournament, beating Qatar 6-0 in front of a packed and noisy Vancouver Stadium.

They are almost certain to be in the last 32. However, Ismael Kone’s horrific injury cast a shadow over the celebrations.

The incident occurred eight minutes into the second half, when Canada was leading 3-0. Shortly after receiving the ball, former Watford midfielder Kone was tackled late and badly by Assim Madibo as he struggled for possession.

The reaction of Kone and the players around him said it all.

The 24-year-old Sassuolo midfielder appeared in pain and shock, with his leg visibly broken. With Madibo’s hands above his head, his distraught teammates rushed to him as the referee stopped play so medical personnel could intervene.

An argument broke out between the two teams as the anger and rage grew following what happened.

Despite suffering a World Cup-ending injury, Kone gave the thumbs-up to the crowd as he was sent off on a stretcher.

“You saw him waving to the crowd and reassuring almost everyone,” boss Jesse Marsch said after the match.

“It’s a statement about Ismael, but also this is an incredible team. I’ve been telling people about the character of this group for years.

“You saw how everyone was crushed, but we had to find a way to stay focused.”

They focused; From then on, crowds and players were united, and Canada went on to score three more goals.

During a second-half hydration timeout, Marsch broke down in tears. Nathan Saliba, who replaced Kone, lifted his teammate’s jersey after scoring his team’s fourth goal.

“He’ll come back stronger than ever and continue to have a great career,” Kobe’s Marsch said.

“I told him at the water break that he wanted us to finish this game, and that’s what the guys did.”