Qatar earn first-ever World Cup point with late Swiss draw

Qatar secured the first World Cup point in their history after Boualem Khoukhi scored a stoppage-time equaliser to earn a 1-1 draw against Switzerland in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The result marked a significant milestone for Julen Lopetegui’s side, who arrived at the tournament seeking to erase memories of their disappointing debut appearance at the 2022 World Cup, where they lost all three group matches and finished without a point.

Qatar nearly made a dream start when a loose touch from Manuel Akanji allowed Edmilson Junior a clear sight of goal, but the Al-Duhail forward failed to beat Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.

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Switzerland responded quickly and began to dominate possession, with Dan Ndoye testing Mahmoud Abunada before the Europeans took the lead in the 17th minute.

Goalkeeper Abunada brought down Remo Freuler inside the penalty area, and Breel Embolo converted from the spot for his 25th international goal.

Murat Yakin’s men continued to push forward after taking the lead.

Ndoye threatened on several occasions, while Kobel denied another promising opportunity for Edmilson at the other end.

Qatar remained in the contest thanks to a crucial intervention from Pedro Miguel, who cleared Michel Aebischer’s goal-bound effort off the line shortly before half-time.

The Swiss carried their momentum into the second half as Granit Xhaka fired narrowly over from distance, while Abunada produced a smart save to deny Ruben Vargas.

Embolo also missed a chance to double the advantage when he poked wide from close range.

Those missed opportunities proved costly.

Just as Switzerland appeared set to collect all three points, Qatar struck in dramatic fashion in the fourth minute of added time.

Homan Al Amin delivered a cross to the back post where captain Khoukhi rose highest to head home the equaliser and spark celebrations among the Qatari players and supporters.

Qatar will continue their Group B campaign against Canada in Vancouver on June 18 before facing Bosnia and Herzegovina in Seattle on June 24.

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