The BBC admits it edited audio from Canada’s 6-0 win over Qatar after midfielder Ismael Cohn broke his leg.
Ismael Kone broke his leg early Friday morning in Canada’s 6-0 win over Qatar. (Image: Emily Chin, Getty Images)
The BBC has confirmed that it has edited highlights from the game between Canada and Qatar following a serious injury to Canadian midfielder Ismael Cohn. The 24-year-old suffered a broken leg following a mistimed challenge from Asim Madibo.
The first highlights of Canada’s 6-0 win posted on BBC iPlayer reportedly included audio of the moment he broke his leg. The station later confirmed that audio had been removed from the incident, but no close-up footage or replays were included.
In a statement to The Sun, a BBC spokesperson said: “Due to concerns over Ismael Cohn’s injury, we have edited the Canada vs. Qatar World Cup highlights program with iPlayer.
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“We took all appropriate measures and did not broadcast replays of the player’s tackle or shot in distress. We wish him a speedy recovery.”
After the game, Canadian coach Jesse Marsh spoke about the incident in his postgame press conference, and was visibly upset. “I haven’t spoken to Ismael yet, but he is in the hospital,” he said. “He’s going to be prepared for surgery.
“I’m going to see him after this press conference and see exactly what we’re going to do for him. His family is with him at the hospital, his mother is there too.
“It happened right in front of the bench. We all heard it. It was instant. It was like when Tajon (Buchanan) got hurt in practice. It was right in front of us and we all heard the bones breaking.”
“Your hearts go out to him and everyone is a little shaken up by this whole experience, because of the nature of the injury and because Ismael is a big part of the core of our team. It’s going to be a big loss for us. He’s been a great player in the last two games.”
Ismael Kone waved to the crowd as he left the pitch. (Image: Emily Chin, Getty Images)
“But look, I saw him waving to the crowd and almost reassuring everyone else with the fact that he was injured. That’s an incredible statement about a person, Ismael, but this is our team.”
Since then, Cohn himself has shared heartfelt messages with his followers on social media. “Allah never betrayed me.
“In all my life, there has never been one,” he wrote. “So why doubt him now? Especially if you know that. He knows and sees everything before it even happens. He has plans and visions for all of us.
“This battle will test my faith in Him and my character. And to be honest, I am ready for it, because Allah never gives you a test that you cannot overcome, and being tested is the greatest gift from God.”
“Your love and support has been felt and I’m honestly so grateful. I can’t even imagine how grateful I am to everyone who has reached out and prayed.
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“I thank God for that because not everyone is this lucky. To my brothers in Canada, I have transitioned into assistant coach to support you from the sidelines.
“I wanted you to know that I love you all with all my heart and that our brotherhood means everything to me. What you guys did yesterday will stay with me forever. I will be back soon and we will continue to make more memories together.”
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