Madibo and Koné [Reuters/Yonhap]
Madibo and Koné [Reuters/Yonhap]

FIFA has handed Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo, 29, a five-game suspension for a tackle that fractured an opponent's leg during a World Cup group-stage match.

FIFA said Thursday that Madibo had been banned for five matches for "serious foul play." Under FIFA regulations, Madibo has the right to appeal the sanction.

The incident occurred June 19 during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group B match between Qatar and Canada at BC Place in Vancouver.

In the second half, Madibo lunged into a tackle on Canadian midfielder Ismaël Koné, delivering a heavy blow to Koné's left leg. The referee showed Madibo a red card, and Koné was diagnosed with a fracture, rushed to hospital and underwent surgery.

Moments after being sent off, Madibo dropped to his knees on the pitch and buried his face in his hands. He later visited Koné in hospital to apologize in person.

FIFA determined the challenge constituted serious foul play and imposed the additional ban. Although Qatar has been eliminated from the World Cup, the five-game suspension will carry over and apply to future official international matches.

The injury ruled Koné out for the remainder of the tournament. Canada Soccer said the surgery was successful and that he would focus on his recovery.

Playing with 10 men following Madibo's dismissal, Qatar were beaten heavily by Canada. They then lost their final group game against Bosnia and Herzegovina, finishing the tournament with one draw and two defeats — one point in total.


shee@heraldcorp.com