[Saba Sports News] According to British media reports, FIFA has handed a five-match suspension to 32-year-old Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo for a serious foul that left his opponent with a severe injury. Madibo has the right to appeal the disciplinary decision. This incident unfolded in the second matchday of the World Cup group stage between Canada and Qatar. In the 53rd minute of the second half, during a ball contest, Madibo stuck out his leg and brought down Canada midfielder Ismaël Koné. After falling to the ground, Koné suffered a severe deformity to his calf and was unable to walk due to the grave injury. Canada’s players were stunned by the gruesome sight, with some shedding tears and praying for Koné on the spot. Koné was subsequently carried off the pitch on a stretcher. After reviewing the VAR footage, the referee showed Madibo an immediate straight red card. Following the final whistle, Madibo visited Koné in Canada’s dressing room to offer a second apology. Koné has since undergone surgery and is expected to be sidelined for four to five months.
The editor believes that FIFA Disciplinary Committee issued a heavy penalty against Madibo for his foul. The committee deemed his challenge a serious offence and handed him a five-match suspension.