Qatar rescue historic first World Cup point with late equaliser against Switzerland

Khoukhi strikes deep into stoppage time, Qatar secured the first point in their FIFA World Cup history after Boualem Khoukhi’s dramatic injury-time header earned a 1-1 draw against Switzerland in a thrilling Group B encounter, Sport360NG reports. 

With defeat seemingly inevitable, Qatar found a lifeline in the fourth minute of stoppage time when Homam El Amin delivered a precise cross into the penalty area and Khoukhi rose highest to guide his header past the Swiss goalkeeper, sparking jubilant celebrations among Julen Lopetegui’s players and supporters.

The late goal completed a remarkable turnaround for a side that had spent much of the match on the back foot against a dominant Swiss team.

Switzerland Pay Price For Missed Opportunities

Switzerland appeared on course for victory after Breel Embolo converted a first-half penalty to give Murat Yakın‘s men the lead.

The spot-kick was awarded after Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada brought down Remo Freuler inside the area. However, television replays suggested the Bologna midfielder may have been marginally offside during the build-up to the incident.

Despite taking control of the contest and creating numerous chances, Switzerland were unable to extend their advantage. Their wastefulness in front of goal ultimately proved costly as the game entered its closing stages.

Qatar Punish Swiss Complacency

Nottingham Forest attacker Dan Ndoye was among the chief culprits, failing to capitalise on several promising opportunities. Ruben Vargas and Embolo also squandered clear-cut chances that could have put the result beyond doubt.

As the match wore on, Switzerland’s intensity dropped and their inability to convert opportunities left the door open for Qatar.

Although the Asian side struggled for long periods and were largely second best throughout the contest, they remained in the game and took full advantage of their late opportunity.

The dramatic equaliser denied Switzerland a winning start and prevented them from moving to the top of Group B, while Qatar celebrated a landmark moment by collecting their first-ever point at a World Cup finals.