Qatar claim first World Cup point against Switzerland

Qatar earned its first World Cup point in its history after a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser secured a 1-1 draw against a disappointing Switzerland in their Group B clash at the ongoing FIFA 2026 World Cup on Saturday.

Switzerland appeared on course for victory in Santa Clara after Breel Embolo converted an early first-half penalty to give the Europeans the lead.

However, the Swiss were left stunned deep into injury time when defender Miro Muheim turned the ball into his own net under intense pressure from Qatar captain Boualem Khoukhi.

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The result marks a significant milestone for Qatar, a country appearing at its second World Cup finals after hosting the 2022 tournament.

Difficult Build-Up, Historic Outcome

Qatar arrived at the competition under difficult circumstances, with preparations disrupted by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. As a result, the match against Switzerland was only their third competitive outing since December last year.

For much of the encounter, Switzerland dominated proceedings, registering 26 attempts on goal and controlling possession. Yet their inability to put the game beyond reach proved costly as Qatar’s persistence was rewarded four minutes into stoppage time, sparking jubilant celebrations on the bench.

Lopetegui Celebrates Long-Awaited World Cup Debut

“I am very proud of the team,” said Qatar coach Julen Lopetegui.

“I told them that even if we hadn’t scored the goal and didn’t draw, I would have been proud of the mentality and discipline they showed today.

“But fortunately we scored, and that was history.”

The result also represented a personal milestone for Lopetegui, who finally took charge of his first World Cup match eight years later than expected.

The 59-year-old had been due to lead Spain at the 2018 World Cup in Russia but was dismissed just days before the tournament after it emerged he had agreed to become Real Madrid manager following the competition.

Swiss Miss Opportunity to Go Top

Switzerland entered the match as favourites and had an opportunity to move clear at the top of Group B after Canada and Bosnia-Herzegovina played out a draw in the opening group fixture on Friday.

Instead, the Swiss squandered the chance, leaving the group finely balanced and Qatar celebrating a historic achievement that could prove crucial in their bid to reach the knockout stages.