Veteran defender Boualem Khoukhi scored a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser as Qatar held Switzerland to a 1-1 draw in their opening World Cup match on Saturday, securing the Gulf nation’s first-ever point at the tournament.
Switzerland appeared on course for victory after Breel Embolo converted a first-half penalty in the San Francisco Bay Area, but their failure to capitalize on numerous chances proved costly as Qatar struck late to snatch a memorable result.
Making only their second World Cup appearance after hosting the 2022 tournament, Qatar entered the competition short of match fitness following the cancellation of two warm-up friendlies due to the conflict in the Middle East. The clash with Switzerland was just their third match since December.
The Swiss dominated large stretches of the contest, registering 26 shots and controlling possession, but they were unable to put the game beyond reach.
Their wastefulness was punished four minutes into stoppage time when the 35-year-old Khoukhi rose unmarked at the back post to power home a header, sparking jubilant celebrations among the Qatar players and coaching staff.
The result also marked a significant moment for Qatar coach Julen Lopetegui, who took charge of his first World Cup match.
The Spaniard had been due to lead his country at the 2018 World Cup in Russia but was dismissed days before the tournament after agreeing to become Real Madrid manager.
Switzerland made a bright start and nearly gifted Qatar an early breakthrough in the second minute when Manuel Akanji’s defensive lapse sent Edmilson Junior through on goal. However, the forward’s tame effort was comfortably saved by goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.
The warning stirred the Swiss into action, and they were awarded a penalty in the 13th minute after Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada collided with Remo Freuler inside the box. Despite questions over a possible offside in the buildup, the decision stood after a lengthy review.
Embolo calmly dispatched the spot-kick, sending Abunada the wrong way to give Switzerland the lead.
The Europeans continued to press for a second goal and dominated possession throughout the first half, although Qatar almost caught them off guard just before the interval when Edmilson forced Kobel into a smart save during a rare attacking move.
Under the blazing California sun, clear-cut chances became scarce after the break. Granit Xhaka came close with a long-range effort that drifted narrowly over the crossbar, while Embolo struck the side netting as Switzerland searched for a decisive second goal.
Their inability to convert further chances ultimately proved costly.
With time running out, Qatar launched one final attack, and Khoukhi delivered the decisive moment, heading home from close range in the 94th minute to rescue a valuable point.
Switzerland will face Bosnia in Los Angeles on Thursday, while Qatar take on co-hosts Canada in Vancouver on the same day.
AFP
