Qatar scored a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser to earn a historic 1-1 draw against Switzerland in their Group B match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Asian side looked destined for defeat after Breel Embolo’s first-half penalty gave Switzerland the lead in a game they largely controlled.
Switzerland started brightly and created several chances as they pushed for an early breakthrough. Their pressure paid off when Remo Freuler was brought down inside the penalty area by Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada. Embolo stepped up and calmly converted the resulting spot-kick to put Murat Yakın’s men ahead.
The Swiss continued to dominate possession and chances after the break but failed to put the game beyond Qatar’s reach. Nottingham Forest forward Dan Ndoye missed a number of good opportunities, while Embolo and Ruben Vargas were also guilty of wasting clear openings.
Qatar struggled to create meaningful attacks for much of the contest but remained determined and organised. As the clock ticked into stoppage time, they produced a moment that changed the game.
In the 94th minute, Homam El Amin delivered an inviting cross into the penalty area and Boualem Khoukhi rose highest to head the ball past the Swiss goalkeeper, sending Qatar’s players and supporters into wild celebrations.
The late goal secured Qatar’s first-ever point at a FIFA World Cup finals and capped a memorable night for Julen Lopetegui’s side.
For Switzerland, it was a frustrating result after dominating large parts of the match. Their failure to take their chances ultimately proved costly as Qatar punished them with a dramatic late equaliser.
Switzerland will now prepare for their next Group B fixture against Bosnia and Herzegovina, while Qatar face co-hosts Canada as they continue their World Cup campaign.
