Khoukhi equalizer secures historic point for Qatar in opener against Switzerland

RIYADH: It did not look like it for 94 minutes, but Qatar managed to secure a valuable and historic point against Switzerland to blow Group B at the 2026 FIFA World Cup wide open. It might not have been the showing Qatari fans desired after their disappointing campaign at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, but a late equalizer from veteran Boualem Khouki sealed a 1-1 draw against the group’s heavyweights.

The Maroons spent most of the encounter on the back foot as Murat Yakin’s launched wave after wave of attacks on the Qatari goal, racking up 26 attempts throughout the game.

However, a hero emerged in goal for Julen Lopetegui’s side, as Mahmoud Abunada made five saves and ensured his nation did not concede from open play.

The encounter was on the verge of taking an interesting turn in the opening two minutes when Edmilson Junior snuck behind Manuel Akanji and found himself with a clear sight of goal. Edmilson could only muster a tame effort, however, and Switzerland goalkeeper Gregor Kobel kept it out with a fine save.

That was the last time the Qataris got close to goal until the end of the half, as they proceeded to withstand a wave of attacks from the Swiss, who repeatedly found space between the lines. Abunada was forced into three saves before the hydration break but, in the 14th minute, suffered a blow to his head in an attempt to stop Michel Aebischer from getting through on goal.

The referee pointed to the spot, but Aebischer appeared to be offside. A VAR check ensued, but the players’ focus was on Abunada. Luckily for the Qatari goalkeeper, he emerged unscathed, but suddenly found himself facing Breel Embolo from the spot. No offside replay was shown, the penalty was taken, and the Swiss took the lead.

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