Qatar score late to clinch draw with stunned Switzerland in World Cup opener

SANTA CLARA: Qatar got their first World Cup point with a stoppage-time goal to draw 1-1 with Switzerland in an energetic and one-sided Group B opener on Saturday (June 13).

The Swiss went ahead in the 17th minute when Breel Embolo coolly stroked home a penalty, but paid the price for failing to score more after 26 attempts on goal in a match they dominated right from the kickoff.

Qatar soaked up the pressure in the blistering California sun, and, deep into extra time, stunned the Swiss, with captain Boualem Khoukhi heading home a cross from the left from Homam Ahmed to spark chaotic scenes in the stadium.

Qatar coach Julen Lopetegui said afterwards his side had earned the right to keep dreaming at the World Cup.

For Lopetegui, however, the significance of the result stretched beyond the standings.

"We achieved one dream when we arrived here, to be here, and now today is another little dream," the Spaniard told reporters.

"And we have the right to continue having the dream."

The late goal sparked jubilant celebrations among Qatar's players after they spent much of the match absorbing Swiss pressure, with Switzerland registering 26 attempts on goal to Qatar's seven.

Lopetegui said his side never abandoned the game plan, even after falling behind in the 17th minute.

"We made very few changes, but we had to keep our plan because if you... want to open too early against a team like Switzerland, you will suffer a lot," he said.

Qatar remained compact and disciplined, continuing to defend in numbers rather than chasing the game, a strategy Lopetegui said was necessary against a side boasting top-level talent throughout the squad.

"We believe, we work, we resist, we are resilient," he said. "In the end, we have one big award for us."

Lopet