Canada’s 6-0 win over Qatar was supposed to be remembered only as a landmark night. It was the men’s team’s first-ever World Cup victory, secured in emphatic fashion on home soil.
But the match also produced frightening scenes when Ismael Kone suffered a serious leg injury after a challenge from Assim Madibo. The midfielder was stretchered off as teammates and supporters reacted in shock.
Kone is now out for the rest of the World Cup and expected to be sidelined for months. This Friday, he spoke publicly for the first time since the images went around the world.
Ismael Kone shares emotional message after World Cup injury
Kone posted a faith-filled statement on Instagram after the injury.
The Sassuolo midfielder wrote: “Allah has never failed me. Throughout my life, not even once. So why doubt him now? Especially knowing that. He knows and sees everything before it even happened. He has a plan and a vision for all of us. This battle is a test to my faith in him and to my character.”
He also thanked fans for their support, saying: “Your love and support has been felt, honestly thank you so much. You can’t even imagine how grateful I am to everyone who reached out and that has me in their prayers. I thank god for that because not everyone is this fortunate.”
Kone then told his Canadian teammates he had turned into an “assistant coach” from the sideline, adding: “I wanted you to know that I love you guys from the bottom of my heart and our brotherhood is everything to me. What you guys did yesterday will stay with me forever. I’ll be back very soon and we’ll keep making more memories together.”
Canada will certainly miss him, and Jesse Marsch will have to address that.
Before the injury, Kone had five recoveries, won three of five ground duels, made one key pass and competed hard in midfield.
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