FIFA has cracked down on the worst of sports. Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo was handed a five-match ban on Wednesday by world football’s governing body following a nasty tackle that broke Canada’s Ismael Kone’s leg during their World Cup match.The 28-year-old Qatari international was shown a straight red card for reckless conduct during Canada’s 6-0 win over Qatar at BC Place last Thursday. FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee concluded that the ban amounted to long-term abuse, adding that the decision was subject to appeal.A sad turn of eventsWhat should have been a celebratory night for Canada, marking their first World Cup win was overshadowed by Koné’s serious injury. The AC Milan midfielder was hit in the back in the 51st minute, landing on his left leg under pressure.Players from both sides immediately signaled to the medical staff in panic as Koné lay on the sheet, gagged in pain. The teenager was wheeled out on a stretcher and later underwent emergency surgery to repair fractures in the tibia and fibula of his left leg.A visibly upset Madibo, who realized the severity of the attack immediately, went to apologize to Koné in person after the final whistle. The Canadian star later took to Instagram to thank fans, writing: “You can’t imagine how grateful I am to everyone who supported me and prayed for me.”Mature examplesAlthough a five-match ban is rare in the modern history of the game, it does not stand as the most severe punishment handed down by FIFA. That record is still held by Uruguayan player Luis Suárez, who received a nine-game ban and a four-month ban for biting Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini at Brazil 2014. Before that, Italian defender Mauro Tassotti was banned for eight games in 1994 for playing Spanish football.The Qatari Football Association has yet to comment on the decision, with Canada facing the grim reality of embarking on their dream international tour without their star engine.