Saliba dedicates goal to Koné after midfielder breaks his leg in Canada vs Qatar

William Saliba was the scorer of Canada's fourth goal in the match against Qatar, this Thursday (18), in the second round of Group B of the 2026 World Cup. During the celebration, the striker paid tribute to his teammate Ismael Koné, who had to leave the field after suffering a serious injury.

Saliba found the net in the 18th minute of the second half, following a free kick. After the goal, he ran towards the stands holding Koné's shirt, while the fans applauded the gesture. The attacker also made the figure eight sign with his hands, in reference to the number used by the midfielder.

Koné had to be removed from the match just five minutes into the final stage, after suffering a fracture in his left leg following a harsh challenge from midfielder Madibo. The Qatari player received a straight red card and was sent off.

Athletes from both teams reacted with shock to the move. Players from Canada and Qatar held their heads in their hands as they realized the severity of the injury, while the stadium remained silent during medical care. Striker Jonathan David was even caught crying during the stoppage.

Koné received treatment on the pitch, was removed on a stretcher and left the field to the applause of the fans present in Vancouver.

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Source: CNN