BBC edits World Cup highlights audio after Ismael Kone suffers broken leg against Qatar

The BBC has confirmed it edited the audio from its highlights coverage of Canada’s 6-0 win over Qatar at the 2026 World Cup after Canada midfielder Ismael Kone suffered a broken leg from a challenge by Assim Madibo. The 24-year-old was taken to hospital and is set to undergo surgery.

Initial highlights posted online reportedly included audio captured at the moment of the leg break. The broadcaster subsequently removed the sound from the incident, while confirming that no close-up footage or replays of the tackle were included in any version of the broadcast.

“We edited the audio on iPlayer from the Canada vs Qatar World Cup game highlights programme due to the sensitivities around the injury to Ismael Kone,” a BBC spokesperson said in a statement. “We took all the appropriate measures and did not broadcast any replays of the tackle or shots of the player in distress. We wish him a speedy recovery.”

Canada head coach Jesse Marsch was visibly shaken when addressing the media after the match. “It happened right in front of the bench, we could all hear it,” he said. “I knew right away — it was similar to when Tajon Buchanan got hurt in training. It was right in front of us and everyone could hear the bone snap.”

Marsch paid tribute to Kone’s composure in the immediate aftermath of the injury. “He was waving to the crowd and almost making everybody else feel at ease with the fact that he’s injured. It’s an incredible statement about Ismael as a person. He’s been an amazing player in these last two games and it will be a big loss for us.”

Kone himself addressed his followers on social media from hospital, striking a defiant and faith-driven tone. “ALLAH has never failed me — throughout my life, not even once,” he wrote. “This battle is a test to my faith and to my character. And honestly I’m ready for it. Your love and support has been felt — honestly, thank you so much.”

The injury is a significant blow to Canada, who had already lost Buchanan to a training-ground fracture ahead of the tournament. Kone had been one of their standout performers in the group stage before the incident brought an abrupt end to his World Cup.