News Focus
- Boualem Khoukhi scores 94th-minute header to earn Qatar’s first-ever World Cup point
- Switzerland took an early lead through Breel Embolo’s first-half penalty
- Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada conceded the spot-kick after fouling Remo Freuler
- Coach Julen Lopetegui praises squad’s fighting spirit despite being second best for long periods
- Switzerland face Bosnia-Herzegovina next while Qatar meet co-hosts Canada on 18 June
Qatar have finally ended their World Cup losing streak after securing a historic first point at the finals thanks to a last-gasp header against Switzerland.
Defender Boualem Khoukhi rose highest in the penalty area to meet Homam El Amin’s cross deep into added time, directing the ball into the net in the 94th minute. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Qatar players and their Spanish coach Julen Lopetegui, who watched his side salvage an unlikely draw.
For most of the match, Switzerland looked certain to collect all three points. Murat Yakin’s team dominated possession and took the lead when Breel Embolo converted from the penalty spot following a foul by keeper Mahmoud Abunada on Remo Freuler. Replays indicated Freuler may have strayed offside before the incident, but the Video Assistant Referee allowed the goal to stand.
The Swiss side created enough chances to win several matches but were punished for their wastefulness in front of goal. Nottingham Forest winger Dan Ndoye missed multiple clear opportunities, while Ruben Vargas and Embolo also failed to hit the target when well placed.
The result marks a significant moment for Qatar, who endured a miserable tournament as hosts four years ago. They became the first host nation to lose their opening game, suffer elimination after just two matches, and lose all three group fixtures without registering a point.
Lopetegui expressed immense pride in his team’s character. “I told the players I would be proud of them even without the goal,” he said. “They showed fantastic mentality and discipline. We needed a little luck, but you must work and believe to create your own fortune. Today we made history.”
In their next Group B fixtures on Thursday, 18 June, Switzerland will tackle Bosnia-Herzegovina while Qatar travel to Vancouver to face co-hosts Canada.