Qatar secured the first World Cup point in the nation’s history after earning a dramatic 1-1 draw against Switzerland in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group B opener on 13 June. A stoppage-time equalizer rescued a valuable result for the Gulf nation after Switzerland appeared set to begin the tournament with a victory.
Switzerland controlled much of the contest at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, creating the majority of the scoring opportunities and applying sustained pressure throughout the match. The Swiss eventually took the lead in the first half when Breel Embolo converted a penalty to put his side ahead.
The European side continued to dominate possession and chances after the break but struggled to extend their advantage despite generating numerous attempts on goal. Qatar remained disciplined defensively and stayed within reach as the match entered its closing stages.
As Switzerland looked set to collect all three points, Qatar produced a dramatic late response. Deep into stoppage time, Homam Ahmed delivered a cross into the penalty area, where captain Boualem Khoukhi rose highest to meet the ball. The effort deflected into the net, leveling the score and sparking celebrations among the Qatari players and supporters.
The equalizer secured a landmark moment for Qatar, who had failed to earn a point during their previous World Cup appearance in 2022. The result also left Group B finely balanced after the opening round of matches.
For Switzerland, the draw was a frustrating outcome after controlling large portions of the game and creating significantly more opportunities. Despite their dominance, they were unable to protect their lead and were forced to settle for a single point.
Standout Performances
• Boualem Khoukhi scored Qatar’s stoppage-time equalizer.
• Breel Embolo converted Switzerland’s first-half penalty.
• Homam Ahmed provided the cross that led to Qatar’s goal.
• Qatar earned the first World Cup point in the country’s history.
• Switzerland recorded 26 goal attempts during the match.
Turning Point
The defining moment arrived in stoppage time when Boualem Khoukhi headed home Qatar’s equalizer. Switzerland had controlled the match and appeared on course for victory, but the late goal dramatically changed the outcome and earned Qatar a historic point.
Match Statistics
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026
Stage: Group B
Date: 13 June 2026
Venue: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California, United States
Final Score: Qatar 1-1 Switzerland
Half-Time Score: Qatar 0-1 Switzerland
Goals
Qatar:
• Boualem Khoukhi (90+)
Switzerland:
• Breel Embolo (Penalty)
Points Earned
• Qatar: 1
• Switzerland: 1
Sources
• FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Match Centre
• Reuters
• FIFA Match Highlights