(foto: Getty Images)
Qatar produced the first major surprise of the 2026 World Cup, earning a dramatic 1-1 draw against Switzerland thanks to a 94th-minute goal from captain Boualem Khoukhi.
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Qatar delivered the first genuine shock of the 2026 FIFA World Cup tonight, fighting back to claim a dramatic 1-1 draw against favored Switzerland.
The Swiss appeared on course for victory for much of the evening, but a late twist transformed the match and handed Qatar a valuable point in Group B.
Switzerland started strongly and controlled possession from the opening whistle. Coach Murat Yakin's side created a series of chances and repeatedly tested Qatar goalkeeper Mahmud Abunad.
The breakthrough arrived in the 17th minute.
Breel Embolo calmly converted a penalty to give Switzerland a deserved 1-0 lead after an impressive opening spell.
The goal seemed likely to open the floodgates, but Abunad had other ideas.
The Qatar goalkeeper emerged as the standout performer of the first half, producing a string of excellent saves to keep his team in the match. Switzerland continued to create opportunities, but the finishing touch was missing.
Qatar, meanwhile, struggled to build sustained pressure but remained dangerous whenever Swiss mistakes offered an opening.
The pattern continued after the break.
Switzerland pushed for a second goal that would put the result beyond doubt, yet every missed opportunity kept Qatar alive. As the clock ticked down, the underdogs sensed that one chance might be enough.
That moment arrived deep into stoppage time.
In the 94th minute, veteran captain Boualem Khoukhi rose highest inside the penalty area and powered a header into the net, sending Qatar's players and supporters into wild celebrations.
The goal carried special significance for the 35-year-old defender. It came in his 124th international appearance and marked his 22nd goal for the national team.
For Switzerland, the result felt like a missed opportunity.
Despite dominating large portions of the match and creating numerous chances, they failed to put the contest away and paid the price in the final moments.
For Qatar, however, it was a historic evening.
The point strengthens their hopes of reaching the knockout stage and provides a major confidence boost after a difficult run of results leading into the tournament.
World Cup, Group B
Switzerland 1-1 Qatar
17' Breel Embolo (penalty)
94' Boualem Khoukhi
After the opening round of Group B matches, the battle for qualification remains completely open, with Qatar proving they are capable of causing problems for more established opponents.