Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo has received a five-match suspension from FIFA following a serious challenge during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The disciplinary action comes after his tackle on Canada midfielder Ismael Kone, which resulted in the player suffering fractures to both the tibia and fibula bones in his left leg.
Madibo was shown a red card during Qatar’s 6-0 defeat last Thursday.
FIFA cites serious foul play
FIFA’s disciplinary committee ruled that the incident amounted to serious foul play and handed Madibo a five-game ban.
The midfielder still has the option to appeal the decision.
The suspension means Madibo will miss Qatar’s upcoming matches as the team continues its World Cup campaign.
Kone undergoes surgery after injury
Kone, who plays for Italian club Sassuolo, underwent surgery shortly after the match in Vancouver.
The Canadian player is currently recovering from the injury.
Madibo has since visited Kone in hospital following the incident, showing support for the injured midfielder.
Incident sparks World Cup discussion
The tackle has become one of the talking points from the early stages of the tournament, highlighting the strict disciplinary approach taken toward dangerous challenges.
