Qatar 1-1 Switzerland: Khoukhi hits dramatic late equaliser for historic point
A dramatic 94th-minute equaliser from Boualem Khoukhi sparked scenes of unbridled joy at Levi’s Stadium as Qatar fought back to claim their first-ever FIFA World Cup point in a breathless 1-1 draw with Switzerland.
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Murat Yakin’s side arrived in California as heavy favourites and quickly assumed control of the Group B opener, suffocating the Asian champions with relentless high pressing. The European side’s territorial dominance yielded a breakthrough after just 17 minutes under controversial circumstances. Switzerland’s Remo Freuler collided heavily with Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada in the penalty box, prompting a lengthy delay and fierce protests over a potential offside in the build-up. Following a semi-automated VAR check, the decision stood, and tournament specialist Breel Embolo stepped up to coolly send Abunada the wrong way from the penalty spot.
With Granit Xhaka pulling the strings from midfield, the Swiss routinely sliced through the Qatari lines but paid a heavy price for a staggering lack of clinical edge. Dan Ndoye fired a glorious close-range opportunity over the crossbar, while Abunada produced a string of crucial saves to deny Denis Zakaria and Manuel Akanji, keeping Julen Lopetegui’s compact side within touching distance.
As the second half wore on and heavy humidity took its toll, the Swiss grew increasingly casual in possession. Qatar, who failed to register a single point on home soil four years ago, continued to carry a threat on the counter through Akram Afif.
Just as Switzerland looked poised to comfortably navigate a frantic period of added time, Qatar found their historic moment. Homam Ahmed delivered a looping, pinpoint cross from the left wing, and talismanic defender Khoukhi rose highest in the center of the penalty area to power a majestic header past a stranded Gregor Kobel.
While Yakin will left rueing 26 squandered attempts and two costly points dropped, Qatar’s resilient display blew Group B wide open ahead of their upcoming clash with co-hosts Canada.
