VANCOUVER: Canada coach Jesse Marsch said his players were left shaken by the serious leg injury suffered by midfielder Ismael Kone during their 6-0 World Cup victory over Qatar, but vowed the setback would strengthen the team’s resolve as they pursue a historic tournament run.
Kone was carried from the field on a stretcher after a heavy challenge from Qatar’s Assim Madibo, who was sent off for the tackle during Thursday’s Group B match in Vancouver.
“It was right in front of us, and everyone could hear the bone snap,” Marsch told reporters after the game.
“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.”
Marsch said Kone had been taken to hospital and was preparing to undergo surgery after suffering a broken leg.
The injury cast a shadow over an otherwise memorable day for Canada, who recorded the first World Cup finals victory in their history and moved into a strong position to qualify for the round of 32.
Kone acknowledged supporters at BC Place as he was carried off the pitch, a gesture Marsch said reflected both the midfielder’s character and the spirit within the squad.
“It was a statement about Ismael, but also this is an incredible team,” Marsch said.
“I have been telling people for years about the character of this group. You can see the brotherhood; it is one of the first things I noticed when I took on this role, how close they are and how connected they are.”
The Canadian coach said his players were visibly distressed by the incident but remained focused on finishing the match professionally.
“You’ve got to see how everyone was crushed, but we had to find a way to stay focused,” he said.
“I said at the water break that he would want us to finish this game, and that is what the guys did.”
Marsch added that Madibo visited the Canadian dressing room after the match to apologise for the challenge.
“I don’t think he meant such a gruesome tackle; I don’t fault him for that,” he said.
Canada have four points from their opening two Group B matches and are well placed to reach the knockout stage. Victory in their final group game against Switzerland would secure top spot and ensure their round-of-32 match is played on home soil.
