Qatar Score in Stoppage-Time Against Switzerland to Secure First Ever World Cup Point

Written by Pavel Kateliev

Pavel Kateliev is a popular sport journalist, particularly in the fields of football, basketball, tennis, and hockey. He writes daily for Sportingpedia and his work has been translated into at least 20 languages and featured on renowned outlets such as BBC, Yahoo, MCN, Sun, and Evening News, in Italian, English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

, | Updated: June 14, 2026

Qatar players celebrate after equalising in stoppage time against Switzerland

Key Takeaways:

Boualem Khoukhi netted a 94th-minute equaliser as Qatar drew 1-1 with Switzerland in their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener
This result marked Qatar’s first-ever point at World Cup finals
Breel Embolo scored his 25th international goal for Switzerland from the penalty spot in the 17th minute

Match Analysis

Boualem Khoukhi emerged as the hero for Qatar in Santa Clara, finding the back of the net deep into stoppage time to secure a historic 1-1 draw with Switzerland in their opening fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The equaliser, coming in the 94th minute, ensured that Qatar collected their maiden point at a World Cup finals, providing a significant confidence boost at the outset of the tournament.

Khoukhi leaves it late to secure Qatar's first-ever #FIFAWorldCup point 🫨 pic.twitter.com/3zV3sMWtsP
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 13, 2026

Heading into the contest, Qatar’s recent record against European opposition had been underwhelming, with only two wins in their last fifteen encounters across all competitions, alongside five draws and eight defeats. Despite this, the Middle Eastern side showed early attacking intent and nearly struck first after a defensive slip by Manuel Akanji, but Edmilson Junior could not beat the imposing Gregor Kobel in a one-on-one situation.

First-Half Developments

Switzerland responded to the early threat and began to control proceedings. Dan Ndoye’s effort forced Mahmoud Abunada into action before the breakthrough arrived. In the 17th minute, Remo Freuler was brought down by Abunada inside the penalty area, gifting the Red Crosses a spot-kick. Breel Embolo stepped up and confidently dispatched the penalty for his 25th goal at international level.

With the upper hand, Murat Yakin’s men sought to capitalise further. Ndoye twice threatened to double their advantage, while Edmilson Junior, at the other end, was denied again by Kobel. Just before half-time, Switzerland nearly increased their lead when Michel Aebischer’s shot looked destined for the net, only for Pedro Miguel to intervene and clear off the line, keeping Qatar in contention at the interval.

Second Half: Momentum and Missed Opportunities

After the restart, Switzerland maintained their momentum with Granit Xhaka narrowly missing from distance with a 25-yard strike. Despite enjoying significant possession and creating multiple chances, the Swiss were unable to find a second goal. Abunada kept out a shot from Ruben Vargas, while Embolo sent a close-range attempt wide.

As full time approached, it appeared Switzerland would leave with all three points. However, Qatar refused to concede defeat and were rewarded in dramatic fashion. In the dying minutes, Khoukhi rose highest at the far post to connect with Homan Al Amin’s delivery, heading in a crucial leveller and ensuring a memorable result for Julen Lopetegui’s side.