FIFA World Cup 2026: Why Is Assim Madibo Handed A 5 Match Ban?

Qatar player Assim Madibo has been given a five-match ban after breaking the leg of Canada midfielder Ismaël Koné at the World Cup, FIFA said on Wednesday. Madibo was sent off with a straight red card during Canada’s 6-0 win over Qatar in Vancouver last Thursday.

The FIFA disciplinary committee said the suspension was for serious foul play and that the decision is subject to appeal. Koné was hurt in the 51st minute after a tackle from behind, and he was taken off on a stretcher before later undergoing surgery on a broken tibia and fibula in his left leg.

Injury and response

Players around Koné immediately feared a serious injury as he lay on the ground, holding his leg and covering his mouth with his hand. Madibo was also visibly upset and apologised in person to Koné after the game. The Qatar national team did not immediately respond to a request for comment by The Associated Press.

Canada’s first World Cup victory was overshadowed by the injury. Koné later posted on Instagram: "You can't even imagine how grateful I am to everyone who reached out and that has me in their prayers," The ban is not FIFA’s longest at a World Cup.

FIFA World Cup bans