Qatar secures first World Cup point with stoppage-time equaliser against Switzerland
A header by Boualem Khoukhi in the 94th minute earned Qatar a 1-1 draw with Switzerland, grabbing the nation's first ever point at a men's World Cup.
Qatar claimed their first point in World Cup history on Saturday, scoring deep into stoppage time to hold Switzerland to a 1-1 draw in the opening round of Group B in Santa Clara, United States.
How the match unfolded
Switzerland, appearing at their 13th World Cup, took control early. Breel Embolo converted a penalty in the 17th minute after Qatari goalkeeper Mahmud Abunada was judged to have fouled an opponent. The Swiss dominated possession and created several chances, but Abunada made a series of saves to keep his side in the contest. The goalkeeper's performance, despite conceding the spot-kick, was one of the bright spots for Qatar.
Late drama in Santa Clara
With the clock running down, Qatar pressed forward and were rewarded. Central defender Boualem Khoukhi moved into the Swiss penalty area in the fourth minute of added time and headed home the equaliser, sparking celebrations among the Qatari supporters. The goal arrived at 90+4' (90+5' by some match reports) and silenced the Swiss, who had controlled much of the game.
I saw the ball coming and just knew I had to throw myself at it.
Group B picture
The result leaves all four teams in Group B tied on one point. On Friday, co-hosts Canada also drew 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina. Qatar, participating in their second World Cup after hosting the 2022 edition, will look to build on this performance when they face Canada next. Switzerland, meanwhile, must regroup after letting two points slip late.
Key moments
- Kick-off in Santa Clara
- 17': Breel Embolo scores from the penalty spot for Switzerland
- 21': Denis Zakaria forces a save from Mahmud Abunada
- 45+6': Michel Aebischer's effort cleared off the line by Qatari defence
- 90+4': Boualem Khoukhi heads in equaliser for Qatar
