Canada’s Ismaël Koné Misses Training for Undisclosed Reason Ahead of World Cup Opener Ismaël Koné, a key midfielder for Canada’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, was absent from team training on Wednesday, just two days before the team’s opening match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The 28-year-old, who is expected to start in an advanced midfield role, arrived at the training facility in full gear but left shortly afterward in a car, according to reports. Canada Soccer officials confirmed his absence but provided no details, citing “undisclosed” reasons. Head coach Jesse Marsch was not available for comment following the session. Koné’s absence has raised questions, as he had participated in full training during the team’s preparation camp. During Tuesday’s session, he wore tape over his left wrist, though Canada Soccer did not link this to his Wednesday absence. When asked about the injury, Koné told reporters that “something happened” during Canada’s June 5 friendly draw against Ireland, but he insisted he was “fine.” His performance in that match was described as one of his best for the national team, with coach Marsch praising his vision and ability to create opportunities. “My vision from the beginning is of Ismaël as an intensive player that also has a gift of just moving around with the ball that teams can’t really match plan for. He’s an X factor for us,” Marsch said. The team faces additional challenges as several players remain in return-to-play protocols. Alphonso Davies, the star left back, is still recovering from a previous injury and trained separately from the squad on Tuesday. However, he participated in full sessions on Wednesday, though he trained away from the main group. Ralph Priso, another defender, began training in cleats on Wednesday, a shift from his earlier use of training shoes.#ismael_kone #ogc_nice #bosnia_and_herzegovina #jesse_marsch #canada_soccer
Pressure is a privilege – Spalletti urges Juventus to relish Serie A run-in Juventus host Sassuolo on Saturday as Luciano Spalletti’s side look to continue their push for a Champions League spot in Serie A. The Bianconeri are fifth in the league, one point behind Como, in a tight race for European qualification. Following a 4-0 victory over Pisa and a 1-0 win against Udinese, Juventus aim to secure three consecutive clean sheets for the first time in over a year. A win against Sassuolo would mark a significant milestone for Spalletti, who would become the fourth manager in Serie A history to reach 300 career victories. Spalletti has emphasized the importance of embracing the pressure that comes with representing Juventus, particularly for the fans who support the club. “Pressure is a privilege that belongs only to those who have a history to honour and to want to write,” the manager said. He highlighted the value of the fans’ loyalty, stating that the team’s identity is defined by how it faces challenges. “We, as a reference, don’t just have the result of a match but all the people who make up the atmosphere, who are our fans. That is our reference,” he added. The manager also outlined the tactical approach needed against Sassuolo, praising the opponent’s footballing ideas. “Sassuolo is one of the best teams for footballing ideas, both when they regain the ball wanting to immediately turn the action around and when they build from the back,” Spalletti noted. He stressed the importance of reading the game’s moments, particularly in a match against a team coached by Fabio Grosso. Sassuolo, meanwhile, sit 10th in the league, having suffered two consecutive defeats to Lazio and Bologna after a three-game winning streak. The Emilians’ recent form contrasts with their historical struggles against Juventus.#juventus #luciano_spalletti #sassuolo #ismael_kone #fabio_grosso
Lazio vs Sassuolo Combined XI: Zaccagni & Berardi on the Wings Lazio and Sassuolo are set to face off in a Serie A match that carries more symbolic weight than competitive significance. Both teams occupy mid-table positions, with Lazio currently ninth and Sassuolo two spots ahead of them. While the stakes are low in terms of league standings, the encounter remains a clash of pride, as Lazio seeks to maintain its historical dominance over the Emilian club. Despite Sassuolo’s recent resurgence, the gap in quality between the two sides has narrowed considerably, making the match a fascinating tactical study. The combined XI for the two teams reflects this parity, with players from both squads selected based on their current form and availability. The formation adopted is a 4-3-3, a system that suits both clubs’ attacking ambitions. Goalkeeper Ivan Provedel of Lazio is included despite his recent form dip, as his experience outweighs the potential of Arijanet Muric. Sassuolo’s Sebastian Walukiewicz is chosen over Adam Marusic for his versatility and energy on the right flank. Defensively, Lazio’s Mario Gila and Alessio Romagnoli form the central pairing, with Gila’s consistency and Romagnoli’s experience giving them the edge over younger alternatives. Nuno Tavares, a returning full-back for Lazio, is selected over Uliesses Garcia, who has made an impact for Sassuolo but lacks Tavares’ defensive solidity. In midfield, Sassuolo’s Ismael Kone is the standout pick, having already scored five goals this season—a tally unmatched by any Lazio player. Nicolo Rovella, despite his injury setbacks, is included for his creative influence, while Kristian Thorstvedt, a largely overlooked Norwegian, is chosen for his all-round contributions.#lazio #sassuolo #domenico_berardi #mattia_zaccagni #ismael_kone
