First World Cup Sensation: Qatar Snatches Draw Against Switzerland in Stoppage Time

The 2026 World Cup has seen its first upset as Qatar managed a 1-1 draw against Switzerland in San Francisco on Saturday. Switzerland took the lead in the 17th minute when Breel Embolo converted a penalty after a VAR review for a foul by Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada on Remo Freuler.

Abunada made several crucial saves to keep Qatar in the game. However, in the 4th minute of stoppage time, Boualem Khoukhi headed home from a cross by Homam Al-Amin to level the score at 1-1. Despite Switzerland's dominance in statistics – 26 shots to 7, 10 corners to 3 – they could not secure three points.

Switzerland is ranked 19th in the FIFA rankings, while Qatar is 56th. The match was attended by 67,966 spectators. Qatar is competing in only their second World Cup and this marks their first ever match without a defeat. Switzerland has reached the round of 16 in the last three tournaments.

In the same group, Canada drew 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina on Friday, meaning all four teams have one point after one round. This is the first World Cup with 48 teams, co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The group stage ends on June 27, followed by knockout rounds. The final is scheduled for July 19. The previous tournament in Qatar in 2022 was won by Argentina, who defeated France on penalties.