Canada’s Ismael Kone out for World Cup after successful leg surgery

Canada midfielder Ismael Kone will miss the remainder of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after undergoing surgery to repair fractures in his lower left leg, Canada Soccer said on Friday. The injury occurred in the 51st minute of Canada’s Group B match against Qatar in Vancouver on Thursday, a game Canada won 6-0. Officials said Kone is expected to make a full recovery.

Kone was stretchered off in visible discomfort after a tackle by Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo. A video review led to Madibo being shown a red card, leaving Qatar further reduced after a second dismissal in the match, officials said.

Canada Soccer said the operation to repair fractures to Kone’s tibia and fibula was successful. Canada coach Jesse Marsch said he could hear the bone snap during the incident.

Canada’s midfield reshuffle before Switzerland match

Marsch told reporters on Friday that Kone was in good spirits at the hospital as he was prepared for the procedure. Marsch said three surgeons performed the operation, which lasted about an hour and a half.

Kone’s absence leaves Canada short in midfield as the team approaches a decisive group-stage fixture. Canada play Switzerland in Vancouver on Wednesday, with both teams on four points after their first two matches, and the result will determine the winner of Group B.

Nathan Saliba replaced Kone after the injury and is expected to be an option in the midfield rotation going forward. Saliba, who also scored in the win over Qatar, celebrated by holding up a replica of Kone’s Canada shirt and pointing to the number eight.

Qatar set to feel red-card consequences

Officials said Madibo later apologised to Kone. Qatar finished the match with nine players after the two red cards and will head into its remaining group schedule needing to manage further suspensions.

Canada’s medical staff will continue to monitor Kone’s recovery, while Marsch and his staff prepare the squad for Wednesday’s match with first place in the group at stake.