Boulem Khoukhi's last-minute goal - Qatar hold Switzerland to 1-1 draw
Despite Switzerland dominating the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group B match at Levi's Stadium in Sandra Clara, California, Qatar drew 1-1 with a late lightning goal. Switzerland took the lead through a Bril Mbolo penalty, while Qatar's Boulem Khoukhi headed home Ahmed Al-Ganehi's cross in the 95th minute of extra time to seal the point.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 Group B first match between Switzerland and Qatar ended in dramatic fashion. Switzerland controlled the ball for the majority of the time, with the team dominating early. Switzerland scored their first goal in the 17th minute of the match; Swiss forward Brielle Embolo scored from a penalty kick, which was awarded for purposeful obstruction of the Qatari goalie. This is Switzerland's first penalty goal in a World Cup main tournament.
Mbolo had another chance late in the first half. But the Qatari defense and goalie Mahmoud Abunada's sharp save meant that chance was wasted. Edmilson tackled junior goalkeeper Gregor Kobel in the third minute for Qatar, but Kobel was subsequently cleared again.
Looking at the statistics in computer vision, the Swiss team had a total of 23 shots (7 on target by the goalkeeper) while Qatar only had 5 (2 on target). Achieving 91% in pass accuracy, the Swiss game proved Taluk's mastery.
Switzerland looked to have almost won the match late in the match, but in the fifth minute of extra time, Boulem Khouqi headed in a cross from Qatari player Ahmed Al-Ganehi to level the score at 1-1. An unexpected result earned Qatar a point.
With this tie, Switzerland will face Bosnia & Herzegovina in their next match, while Qatar will face Canada.