ISMAEL KONE UNDERGOES SURGERY FOR LEG FRACTURES, MISSES WORLD CUP

Canada midfielder Ismael Kone underwent successful surgery on Friday to repair severe fractures to both the tibia and fibula in his lower left leg. The injury occurred during Thursday's Group B match against Qatar in Vancouver. Canada Football stated that Kone is expected to make a full recovery but will miss the remainder of the 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. The 24-year-old was injured in the 51st minute when Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo's tackle brought him down, and he was stretchered from the pitch.

The surgery, which took approximately 90 minutes, involved three surgeons in Vancouver. Canada coach Jesse Marsch said he heard the bone fracture during the incident and visited Kone in hospital before the operation. Marsch reported that Kone was in good spirits and confident about his recovery despite his injuries. A video review of the play resulted in Madibo receiving a red card, Qatar's second of the match, leaving them with nine players. Madibo later apologised to Kone for the challenge.

Canada defeated Qatar 6-0 in the match and now hold four points in Group B. Canada face Switzerland on Wednesday in a fixture that will determine the group winner, with Switzerland also on four points after their 4-1 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina on Thursday. Qatar and Bosnia remain on one point each and must win their final matches to retain hopes of advancing to the knockout stages.