Qatar secured a historic point at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after scoring a dramatic late equalizer to earn a 1-1 draw against Switzerland in their Group B opening match on June 13, 2026.
Switzerland entered the match as favorites and dominated large portions of the game, creating numerous scoring opportunities and controlling possession. Their efforts were rewarded in the 17th minute when striker Breel Embolo converted a penalty to give the Swiss a deserved lead.
The European side continued to push forward throughout the match and created several chances to extend their advantage. However, wasteful finishing and a determined Qatari defense kept the scoreline within reach.
Qatar showed resilience and refused to give up despite spending much of the match under pressure. Their persistence paid off deep into stoppage time when captain Boualem Khoukhi rose highest to meet a cross and headed home the equalizer in the 94th minute, sending Qatari players and fans into celebration.
The goal secured Qatar’s first-ever point in FIFA World Cup history and kept their hopes of progressing from Group B alive. The result was particularly significant for a team looking to improve on its disappointing performance at the 2022 World Cup.
Switzerland will be disappointed after failing to capitalize on their dominance. The Swiss registered far more attempts on goal but were ultimately punished for not converting their chances.
The draw leaves Group B wide open after the first round of matches, with every team in the group earning one point.
Match Summary
Qatar 1-1 Switzerland
Goals:
- Breel Embolo (Switzerland) – 17′ (Penalty)
- Boualem Khoukhi (Qatar) – 90+4′
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026
Group: Group B
Date: June 13, 2026
Qatar will now face Canada in their next group match, while Switzerland takes on Bosnia and Herzegovina in a crucial encounter that could shape the race for qualification to the knockout stage.
