Santa Clara, June 14 (IANS) Qatar earned their first-ever point at a FIFA World Cup on foreign soil after Boualem Khoukhi’s dramatic stoppage-time header secured a 1-1 draw against Switzerland in a gripping Group-stage encounter on Saturday. The Swiss appeared destined to claim all three points after Breel Embolo converted a 17th-minute penalty, but Qatar struck in the fourth minute of added time to stun their European opponents at a sun-soaked venue in the San Francisco Bay Area. Switzerland dominated much of the contest and
created a host of opportunities, finishing with 25 attempts on goal. Dan Ndoye was a constant threat in the opening half, while Michel Aebischer came agonisingly close when his effort was cleared off the line shortly before the break. Embolo’s opener came after Mahmoud Abunada brought down Remo Freuler inside the penalty area, allowing the striker to calmly slot home from the spot. Despite Switzerland’s control, Qatar showed glimpses of danger on the counter. Edmilson Junior nearly punished a defensive lapse from Manuel Akanji in
the second minute but fired too close to goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. The winger also forced another crucial save from Kobel just before halftime. The second half lacked the intensity of the opening period, although Switzerland squandered chances to put the game beyond reach through Juan Vargas and Embolo in the closing stages. Those missed opportunities proved costly. Deep into stoppage time, Homam Ahmed delivered a teasing cross from the left and Khoukhi rose highest at the far post to power a header beyond Kobel, sparking
jubilant celebrations among the Qatar players. The draw also marked a milestone for Switzerland, with veterans Ricardo Rodriguez and Granit Xhaka making their joint-record 13th FIFA World Cup appearances for the national team. While Switzerland were left frustrated after failing to convert their dominance into victory, Qatar celebrated a landmark result that keeps their hopes alive and secures a memorable chapter in the nation’s World Cup journey.
Qatar vs Switzerland, FIFA World Cup 2026, Khoukhi header, Embolo penalty, Santa Clara, Homam Ahmed, Group stage
How did Qatar get a point if Switzerland had like 25 shots?? Something’s off.
That stoppage-time header was insane, I can’t believe it. Embolo penalty early then Qatar just wakes up at the end.
Wait so was this even in Switzerland or like in Qatar? The title says foreign soil but also San Francisco Bay Area so I’m confused. Also I thought Qatar already played at World Cup before? Maybe I’m mixing it with something else.
Switzerland dominated but still couldn’t score again… classic. Like if you miss that many chances you gotta pay, and that cross in stoppage time was the whole story. Also the 13th appearance thing for Xhaka/Rodriguez is cool I guess, but Qatar fans really won this one.