Qatar Scores 94th-Minute Equalizer to Draw with Switzerland, Earns First-Ever World Cup Point

2026 FIFA World Cup Key News

(CNA, San Francisco, 13th – Comprehensive international report) In today's opening group stage match of the FIFA World Cup, Qatar's defender Boualem Khoukhi scored a crucial equalizing goal late in the game, helping his team secure a 1-1 draw against Switzerland and claim their first-ever World Cup point in national history.

According to AFP, in this clash held in the San Francisco Bay Area, Swiss forward Breel Embolo opened the scoring early in the first half with a penalty kick, breaking the deadlock between the two teams. However, this tournament favorite repeatedly squandered opportunities to extend their lead and ultimately paid the price.

Having hosted the 2022 World Cup, this marks only Qatar's second appearance in the tournament finals. Due to the outbreak of war in the Middle East, two of their friendly matches were canceled, leaving the team with limited recent competitive action. Indeed, today's match against Switzerland was only their third official game since December of last year.

For most of the match, Qatar was clearly on the back foot, facing a relentless 26-shot onslaught from Switzerland. Yet, in the fourth minute of second-half stoppage time, 35-year-old veteran Khoukhi rose to the occasion, heading the ball into the net and triggering wild celebrations among the Qatari bench.

Switzerland, seeking a fourth consecutive World Cup knockout stage appearance, dominated the game but failed to seal the victory. This lackluster finishing ability will undoubtedly concern head coach Murat Yakin.

Just two minutes into the match, a defensive error by Swiss defender Manuel Akanji gifted Qatar a golden opportunity. Their forward Edmilson Junior broke through one-on-one, but his shot was too soft and was easily saved by Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.

After escaping that scare, Switzerland woke up and earned a penalty kick in the 13th minute. Although the pass leading to the penalty appeared offside, Qatar's goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada rushed out and brought down Freuler, resulting in a foul. After a four-minute interruption, Embolo stepped up and converted the penalty.

The remainder of the first half turned into a one-sided siege of Qatar's penalty area by Switzerland.

After halftime, under the scorching California sun, both teams' attacking momentum gradually slowed.

Switzerland, unable to capitalize on their prolonged pressure, ultimately paid for their missed chances. In the 94th minute, Khoukhi leapt high at the far post and powered a header into the net to equalize.

Switzerland will travel to Los Angeles, California, on the 18th to face Bosnia and Herzegovina, while Qatar will head to Vancouver on the same day to challenge co-host nation Canada. (Translation: Tsai Chia-min) 1150614

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