Injured Kone receives hero's welcome on wheelchair at World Cup 2026

Ismael Kone made his first public appearance since suffering a double leg fracture at the World Cup, being wheeled onto the pitch at BC Place Vancouver on Wednesday ahead of Canada’s Group B finale against Switzerland. The midfielder received a hero’s welcome from the crowd, who gave him a warm reception as he was assisted by medical staff.

Kone was stretchered off during Canada’s 6-0 victory over Qatar — the country’s second match of the tournament — after a challenge from Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo. Madibo was shown a red card for the tackle, and it was subsequently confirmed that Kone had sustained fractures to both his tibia and fibula.

The appearance at BC Place marked the first time Kone had been seen publicly since the injury, and the reception from Canadian supporters underlined the affection the squad has generated on home soil during the tournament.

Canada’s match against Switzerland in Group B was their final group-stage fixture, with Kone watching on from the sidelines as his teammates looked to secure their place in the knockout rounds.