Qatar has achieved its first point at a World Cup ever with a surprising draw against Switzerland. At the Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California, the host nation’s team of four years ago was largely behind the superior Swiss – but just before the final whistle, Qatari defender Boualem Khoukhi equalized with a header in the fourth minute of stoppage time.
Qatar took part in the World Cup for the first time four years ago, at the 2022 tournament in its own country. There the team suffered three defeats. The Qatari goal was ultimately awarded as an own goal by Swiss player Miro Muheim, FIFA said.
For Switzerland, seen as the favorites in Group B, the draw against Qatar was a disappointment. The Swiss seemed to secure a victory after a penalty from Breel Embolo in the 17th minute. This was awarded after the Qatari goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada committed a foul on the Swiss Remo Freuler. The Swiss made a total of 26 goal attempts, but failed to capitalize on their many chances.
The draw leaves the four Group B teams, which also includes hosts Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina, all exactly level, with one point and one goal each. Canada drew 1-1 against Bosnia in Toronto on Friday. Canada also achieved its first World Cup point ever with that result.
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