Qatar net dramatic late goal to draw World Cup opener against Switzerland

Asian Cup holders Qatar spoiled a dominant performance by Switzerland to secure a historic 1-1 draw in their World Cup 2026 Group B opener on Saturday. Boualem Khoukhi headed in the equalizer in the fourth minute of injury time, sparking wild celebrations among Qatari players. Switzerland had taken the lead in the 17th minute via a Breel Embolo penalty after Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada fouled him and received a yellow card. Embolo, who was denied boarding the team's flight on June 3 due to a visa issue linked to a 2018 criminal conviction, later obtained an urgent visa from the U.S. embassy in Bern. Despite dominating possession, the Swiss failed to capitalize on several other chances. Abunada lay motionless for a few minutes after the collision before resuming play. The match at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara saw numerous empty seats. Switzerland aims to improve on their round-of-16 exit four years ago, while Qatar, which lost all three group matches as hosts in 2022, now has its first point in World Cup history.