Qatar earned their first-ever point at a FIFA World Cup on foreign soil after Boualem Khoukhi’s dramatic stoppage-time header secured a 1-1 draw against Switzerland in a gripping Group-stage encounter on Saturday.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Swiss appeared destined to claim all three points after Breel Embolo converted a 17th-minute penalty, but Qatar struck in the fourth minute of added time to stun their European opponents at a sun-soaked venue in the San Francisco Bay Area.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Switzerland dominated much of the contest and created a host of opportunities, finishing with 25 attempts on goal. Dan Ndoye was a constant threat in the opening half, while Michel Aebischer came agonisingly close when his effort was cleared off the line shortly before the break.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Embolo’s opener came after Mahmoud Abunada brought down Remo Freuler inside the penalty area, allowing the striker to calmly slot home from the spot.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Despite Switzerland’s control, Qatar showed glimpses of danger on the counter. Edmilson Junior nearly punished a defensive lapse from Manuel Akanji in the second minute but fired too close to goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. The winger also forced another crucial save from Kobel just before halftime.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The second half lacked the intensity of the opening period, although Switzerland squandered chances to put the game beyond reach through Juan Vargas and Embolo in the closing stages.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Those missed opportunities proved costly. Deep into stoppage time, Homam Ahmed delivered a teasing cross from the left and Khoukhi rose highest at the far post to power a header beyond Kobel, sparking jubilant celebrations among the Qatar players.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The second half lacked the intensity of the opening period, although Switzerland squandered chances to put the game beyond reach through Juan Vargas and Embolo in the closing stages.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
While Switzerland were left frustrated after failing to convert their dominance into victory, Qatar celebrated a landmark result that keeps their hopes alive and secures a memorable chapter in the nation’s World Cup journey.<\/p>\r\n\r\n