A header goal from Boualem Khoukhi in the 95th minute allowed Qatar to rescue a 1-1 draw against Switzerland in Group B of the 2026 World Cup and score the first point in its history in a World Cup. The goal came after a cross from the left by Homam Ahmed that Khoukhi finished off to beat goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.
The result also meant a special moment for Spanish coach Julen Lopetegui, who leads Qatar in its second World Cup participation and the first achieved through qualification.
Until now, the Asian team’s only World Cup experience had been as host in Qatar 2022, a tournament in which they lost their three group stage matches.
Switzerland dominated much of the match and generated the main scoring opportunities, but found an outstanding performance by goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada, who avoided a greater difference on the scoreboard.
The team led by Murat Yakin took the lead thanks to a penalty converted by Breel Embolo. The action occurred after a foul by Abunada on Remo Freuler inside the area. Embolo took the shot and made it 1-0 for the Europeans.
Despite Swiss dominance, Qatar managed to stay in the game and created some opportunities through quick transitions and set pieces.