World Cup 2026: Qatar snatches 1-1 draw against Switzerland with stoppage-time equalizer

Qatar secured a dramatic 1-1 draw against Switzerland in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, with a last-gasp equalizer stunning the European side.

The match, held at Levi's Stadium in San Francisco, saw Switzerland take the lead in the 17th minute. Breel Embolo found the back of the net, seemingly putting his team on course for victory. However, Qatar fought back and managed to find an equalizer in the fifth minute of stoppage time.

Boualem Khoukhi scored the crucial goal for Qatar, snatching a point from the jaws of defeat and leaving Switzerland to rue missed opportunities. The late goal by Qatar was described as a "last-minute theater header goal explosion."

This result creates a complex scenario in Group B, widely considered the "group of death." With this draw, all four teams in the group are now level on one point each, setting the stage for a highly competitive and unpredictable qualification campaign.

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A last-minute theater header goal explosion!