Qatar grabbed a dramatic late equalizer to draw 1-1 with Switzerland in their opening Group B match of the 2026 World Cup.
The goal was a historic moment. It marked Qatar's first-ever World Cup point.
Boualem Khoukhi scored the crucial leveler at the San Francisco Bay Area stadium. He headed in Ahmed Al-Ganehi's pinpoint cross in the closing stages.
Switzerland had taken the lead early through Breel Embolo's penalty kick. Qatari goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada mistimed a punch and fouled Remo Freuler in the box.
Coach Julen Lopetegui's side was heading for defeat before Khoukhi's intervention. The dramatic turnaround showcased Qatar's resilience on the pitch.
This point carries special significance for the nation. Qatar hosted the 2022 World Cup but lost all three group matches that year.
Switzerland created multiple opportunities to extend their advantage. Poor finishing and wayward passes prevented them from capitalizing.
Lopetegui made a tactical decision to push Khoukhi forward as an attacking option. The defender's decision to move up front paid dividends.
Khoukhi became only the second Qatari player to score in a World Cup match. His goal ended a three-match losing streak in the tournament.
For Qatar, this represented a first competitive point against a European opponent. The achievement came on a stage far from home.
Group B now features four teams on one point each. Qatar, Switzerland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and hosts Canada are all level.
Qatar's next challenge comes Thursday against Canada. Switzerland faces Bosnia and Herzegovina in the other fixture.
Lopetegui will look to build on this momentum. His team has shown they can compete at this level.
The Swiss will be disappointed with how they conceded. They had control for large periods but couldn't see it through.
Embolo's penalty had put Europe ahead in the early stages. But the moment belonged to Qatar by full-time.
