VANCOUVER : Qatar’s Minister of Sports and Youth, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, visited injured Canada midfielder Ismael Kone on Wednesday following the player’s injury during the teams’ World Cup Group B match.
The minister wished Kone a speedy recovery and a swift return to action after the midfielder was hurt in a collision early in the second half of Canada’s match against Qatar.
Sheikh Hamad was accompanied by Qatar international Assim Madibo, who was involved in the challenge that led to the injury.
The delegation was received by Canadian Soccer Association President Peter Augruso, who praised the visit as a demonstration of sportsmanship and mutual respect between the two teams.
Kone suffered the injury during Canada’s 6-0 victory over Qatar, a match overshadowed by the incident that left players and staff visibly concerned.
The visit was widely viewed as a gesture of support for the Canadian midfielder and an example of the spirit of fair play promoted by the tournament.
Officials said the meeting reflected the positive relationship between the participating nations and underscored the importance of solidarity and respect in international sport.
No further update on Kone’s condition was immediately available.
