World Cup star stretchered off with devastating injury as players in tears

Ismael Kone was given oxygen after suffering a gruesome injury during Canada’s World Cup clash with Qatar as his team-mates reacted angrily to the challenge

Heartbreaking scenes unfolded as Canadian star Ismael Kone was stretchered off the pitch with what looked like a broken leg during his country’s match against Qatar. The midfielder acknowledged the crowd as he was carried along the touchline.

Immediate concern was shown for the Canadian international, causing tensions to escalate between the teams. Kone’s colleagues reacted furiously towards the Qatari players, while Assim Madibo, who committed the foul, seemed deeply upset himself, reports the Mirror.

Madibo was dismissed for his challenge, while Kone was administered oxygen to help alleviate his pain.

“His leg’s hanging off,” Canada’s assistant manager informed the fourth official before Madibo was given his marching orders. “His leg is broken. His leg is broken, man.”

Nathan Saliba came on in place of Kone and promptly delivered a sublime free-kick just moments after stepping onto the pitch. Qatar and Canada players were seen in tears in the immediate aftermath of the challenge and horror injury.

Earlier in the day, Switzerland atoned for their slip-up against Qatar as substitutes Johan Manzambi and Ruben Vargas inspired them to a 4-1 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina which puts them in pole position in Group B.