Qatar celebrate historic first World Cup point after 1-1 draw with Switzerland
Qatar wrote a new chapter in their football history on Saturday, June 13, 2026, earning their first-ever FIFA World Cup point with a dramatic 1-1 draw against Switzerland at Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara. Captain Boualem Khoukhi’s stoppage-time header rescued a point for the 2022 hosts and left Group B wide open after one round of matches.
Breel Embolo Penalty Gives Swiss Early Lead
Switzerland dominated from the kickoff and took the lead in the 17th minute. Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada rushed out and collided with Remo Freuler as the midfielder chipped the ball toward goal. The referee awarded a penalty, and Breel Embolo calmly converted to make it 1-0.
The Swiss continued to press, creating 26 goal attempts to Qatar’s seven. Abunada stood firm with several crucial saves, while Dan Ndoye and Ruben Vargas missed chances that would have put the game beyond Qatar’s reach.
Coach Murat Yakin later admitted Switzerland failed to be clinical: “We created very good chances, but unfortunately we weren’t always efficient… we lost two points”.
Khoukhi Header Sparks Wild Celebrations
Qatar remained compact and disciplined under coach Julen Lopetegui. Their resilience paid off deep into added time. In the 94th minute, Homam Ahmed delivered a perfect cross from the right wing, and Khoukhi powered a header past Gregor Kobel to level the score.
The Qatar bench and fans erupted as players celebrated a landmark result. It marked the first time Qatar have avoided defeat at a World Cup final, after three straight losses as hosts in 2022.
“We achieved one dream when we arrived here, to be here, and now today is another little dream,” Lopetegui said. “And we have the right to continue having the dream”.
Goalkeeper Abunada, who caused the penalty, was also emotional: “This is the first point in the history of the Qatari national team. Praise be to God in all circumstances”.
Group B Standings After Matchday 1
The draw leaves Group B level with all four teams on 1 point. Canada and Bosnia & Herzegovina also played out a 1-1 draw on Friday.
Qatar’s next test comes on Thursday, June 18, against co-hosts Canada in Vancouver. Switzerland face Bosnia & Herzegovina in Los Angeles on the same day.
With two games left, Lopetegui’s side will believe they can still reach the knockout rounds if they maintain the same fighting spirit.
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