Qatar earned a memorable 1-1 draw against Switzerland in their opening Group B match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scoring a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser to secure the nation’s first-ever World Cup point.
Defender Boualem Khoukhi emerged as the hero for the Asian champions, heading home in the fourth minute of added time on Saturday to deny Switzerland victory. The late goal sparked jubilant celebrations among the Qatari players, who rushed onto the field to embrace one another after the final whistle.
Switzerland had appeared on course for all three points after dominating much of the contest at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The Europeans took the lead in the 17th minute when striker Breel Embolo converted a penalty after being brought down by Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada.
The incident came after a concerning collision in the 13th minute that left Abunada lying motionless on the pitch for several minutes. The goalkeeper eventually recovered and was shown a yellow card for the foul.
Embolo confidently fired his spot-kick into the top-left corner, sending Swiss supporters into celebration. The goal capped a remarkable week for the 29-year-old forward, who had only recently resolved visa issues that threatened his participation in the tournament.
Switzerland controlled possession throughout much of the match and created several opportunities to extend their advantage but failed to convert. Despite their dominance, they were unable to put the game beyond Qatar’s reach.
Qatar showed resilience and nearly found an equaliser earlier when Ahmed Alaaeldin tested Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel late in the game. Kobel, however, produced a crucial save to preserve Switzerland’s lead—temporarily.
The Swiss goalkeeper had also been called into action in the second minute, denying Edmilson Junior in a one-on-one situation.
As the match entered stoppage time, Qatar finally found the breakthrough they had been chasing. Khoukhi rose highest inside the penalty area to power home a header and secure a historic result for the Gulf nation.
The draw marks a significant milestone for Qatar, which endured a disappointing home World Cup campaign in 2022, becoming the first host nation to lose all three group-stage matches. This time, under Spanish coach Julen Lopetegui, the Asian Cup holders opened their tournament with a hard-earned point.
For Switzerland, the result will be viewed as a missed opportunity. Murat Yakin’s side entered the tournament unbeaten in qualifying and seeking to improve on their round-of-16 finish at the 2022 World Cup. Despite controlling large periods of the match, they were left frustrated by Qatar’s late resurgence.
The dramatic finish ensures Group B begins with both teams sharing the spoils, while Qatar celebrates a landmark moment in its World Cup history.