Canada boss Jesse Marsch says Ismael Kone will return “stronger than ever” after suffering a broken leg in the 6-0 win over Qatar last night.

The Sassuolo midfielder was caught by a late challenge from Qatar’s Assim Madibo eight minutes into the second half of the game in Vancouver and it quickly became apparent he had sustained a serious injury.

Canada were leading 3-0 at the time and, despite the visible upset at Kone’s injury, added another three goals to virtually secure their place in the knockout stages.

It was a horrible incident and overshadowed what should have been a night of celebration for Marsch and his players.

“It was right in front of us, and everyone could hear the bone snap,” said Canada boss Jesse Marsch.

“I haven’t spoken to Ismael yet, but he’s at the hospital. He will prepare for surgery.

“Everybody’s a little shaken by the whole experience because of the nature of the injury, and also because Ismael is a big part of the heart of our team. It will be a big loss for us.

“He will be back stronger than ever and he will continue to have a great career.

“I said at the water break that he would want us to finish this game – and that is what the guys did.”

Madibo apology accepted by Canada – Marsch

Madibo was sent-off with Qatar having to play the bulk of the second half with nine men following the earlier dismissal of Homam El Amin.

Marsch said there was no lingering ill-feeling towards Madibo but was less complementary about the Qatar bench, whose actions after the challenge had led to unsavoury scenes on the touchline.

“He came into the dressing room to apologise,” added former Leeds boss Marsch.

“I don’t think he meant such a gruesome tackle, I don’t fault him for that but I don’t understand their reaction from their bench.”

No-one in Canada will forget this moment – Marsch

The victory saw Canada move to the top of Group B and a draw with Switzerland on Wednesday will be enough for them to go through as pool winners.

“The big carrot was a home World Cup, ” said Marsch. “But it was also to change the sport in the country, to create an identity for what Canadian soccer can be.

“No-one will forget this. No Canadian will forget this day. There will be 40 million people who said they were here when this happened.

“It is an incredible, seminal moment in this country.”