Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo has been handed a five-match suspension by FIFA for a tackle that broke the leg of Canada's Ismael Kone during a World Cup match.

The incident occurred in the 51st minute of Canada's 6-0 victory over Qatar in Vancouver last Thursday. Madibo was shown a straight red card for the challenge from behind.

The ban rules Madibo out of Qatar's remaining World Cup fixtures, including Wednesday's 3-1 loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina in Seattle.

FIFA's disciplinary committee stated the suspension was for serious foul play and that the decision, announced Wednesday, is subject to appeal.

Kone was stretchered off and later underwent surgery for a broken tibia and fibula in his left leg. Despite the severity, he waved to the crowd while being carried off.

Nathan Saliba, who replaced Kone and scored Canada's fourth goal, celebrated by holding up Kone's jersey with the number eight.

Madibo was visibly distraught, crying on the pitch. Canada coach Jesse Marsch said Madibo personally apologized to Kone in the dressing room after the game.

Kone expressed gratitude on Instagram for the support. Madibo and Qatar's sports minister visited Kone to check on his recovery, with photos showing Kone hugging Madibo from a wheelchair.

Kone watched from the sidelines as Canada lost 2-1 to Switzerland on Wednesday.

Source: www.aljazeera.com