Qatar Snatch Late Equalizer To Secure a Hard Fought Draw Against Switzerland

Boualem Khoukhi struck in the 94th minute to help Qatar earn a 1-1 draw with Switzerland in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Even though Qatar have struggled in recent matches against European teams, winning only two of their last 15 games, they came close to a perfect start in Santa Clara. A mistake from Manuel Akanji allowed Edmilson Junior to go through on goal, but he could not finish past goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.

After that early warning, Switzerland pushed back quickly. Dan Ndoye tested Qatar keeper Mahmoud Abunada with a low shot, but it was saved.

Switzerland kept up the pressure and got their reward in the 17th minute. Remo Freuler was brought down in the box by Abunada, and Breel Embolo stepped up to score from the penalty spot.

Switzerland kept pushing forward as the first half went on, with Dan Ndoye coming close twice to adding another goal. Qatar also had a chance when Edmilson tried his luck again, but Gregor Kobel made a solid save with his legs.

Just before half-time, Michel Aebischer had a shot heading towards goal, but Pedro Miguel cleared it off the line to keep Qatar in the game.

After the break, Switzerland started strongly again. Granit Xhaka tried a long-range shot from around 25 yards, but it just went over the bar.

Even though Switzerland missed a lot of chances in front of goal, it seemed like they had done enough to win the match. But in a late twist, Qatar struck in the dying moments when captain Khoukhi rose highest at the far post and headed in Homan Al Amin’s cross to give his team a late equalizer.