A day of tears, scuffles & history as injury mars Canada's moment

Figure caption,

Canada six-goal win over Qatar marred by serious injury

It should have been a moment of pure joy.

Canada, 40 years after playing in their first World Cup, secured their first-ever win at the tournament in emphatic fashion, thrashing Qatar 6-0 in front of a packed and loud Vancouver Stadium.

They are almost certain of a place in the last 32. But celebrations were overshadowed by a dreadful injury to Ismael Kone.

The incident happened eight minutes into the second half, with Canada leading 3-0. Their former Watford midfielder Kone, shortly after receiving the ball, was caught late and badly by Assim Madibo as he challenged for possession.

Kone's reaction, and that of the players around him, said it all.

The 24-year-old Sassuolo midfielder looked anguished and in shock, with his leg visibly broken. His distraught team-mates rushed to him as the referee halted play so the medical staff could come on, while Madibo had his hands on his head.

A scuffle broke out between the two teams as frustration and anger over what had happened bubbled over.

Kone, though, despite suffering an injury that has ended his World Cup, lifted his thumb to the crowd as he was taken off on a stretcher.

"It was right in front of us, and everyone could hear the bone snap," said Canada boss Jesse Marsch.

"I haven't spoken to Ismael yet, but he's at the hospital. He will prepare for surgery.

"Everybody's a little shaken by the whole experience because of the nature of the injury, and also because Ismael is a big part of the heart of our team. It will be a big loss for us."

Despite the nature of the injury, Kone was waving to supporters as he was carried off the field of play.

"It is a statement about Ismael, but also this is an incredible team. I have been telling people for years about the character of this group," said Marsch.

"You got see how everyone was crushed but we had to find a way to stay focus."

Focus they did - as from then on, the crowd and the players were united as Canada pushed on to score three further goals.

During the second-half hydration break, Marsch was in tears. Nathan Saliba - who had replaced Kone - held up his team-mate’s shirt after he scored his side's fourth.

“He will be back stronger than ever and he will continue to have a great career,” said Marsch of Kone.

“I said at the water break that he would want us to finish this game - and that is what the guys did.”

Figure caption,

Kone in 'decent spirits' as he is taken off on stretcher

What next for Canada and Kone?

Figure caption,

'He's so imperfect but it's why you love him' - Marsch on Kone