Qatar and Switzerland played out a dramatic 1-1 draw at Levi's Stadium, with Boualem Khoukhi's stoppage-time equalizer rescuing a point for the hosts after Breel Embolo's first-half penalty had given Switzerland control.
Switzerland arrived in California as heavy favorites. The Swiss dominated possession and created chances consistently. Qatar needed to stay compact and look for opportunities on the counter-attack. Both teams understood the importance of this World Cup opener.
Embolo broke the deadlock in the 17th minute from the penalty spot. The Swiss forward fired his shot low and hard past the goalkeeper. Qatar's defense had conceded a soft foul in the box, handing Switzerland an early advantage.
Qatar responded with intensity after falling behind. The home side pressed higher and created some dangerous moments. However, Switzerland's superior passing accuracy and movement kept them in control of the match.
Yellow cards arrived early for both teams. Mahmud Abunad saw yellow in the 16th minute for Qatar. Jassem Gaber Abdulsallam received his in the 23rd minute. Denis Zakaria picked up a caution for Switzerland in the 42nd minute.
The first half ended with Switzerland leading 1-0. The Swiss had managed 13 shots compared to Qatar's four attempts. Switzerland's expected goals stood at 1.56 compared to Qatar's 0.38. Possession favored the away side heavily at 68 percent.
Switzerland started the second half with confidence. The Swiss created multiple chances through their attacking midfielders. Rubén Vargas proved particularly troublesome on the left wing, rating 7.9 for his performance. Qatar's goalkeeper made three crucial saves to keep his team in the contest.
Qatar gradually built momentum as the second half progressed. The hosts improved their shape and began winning more midfield battles. Homam Al-Amin played a key role in orchestrating attacks from midfield for Qatar.
Khoukhi struck in the fourth minute of stoppage time. The Qatar defender finished from close range to level the match. The equalizer sent the home crowd into celebration after a tense final stretch.
Switzerland finished with 26 total shots but only seven on target. Qatar managed seven shots with four finding the target. The Swiss created far more chances with an expected goals total of 3.24 versus Qatar's 0.76.
The draw left both teams with a point apiece. Switzerland dominated statistically but failed to convert their superiority into victory. Qatar showed resilience and character to salvage a result despite being outplayed for large periods.
Both teams now prepare for their next World Cup fixtures. Switzerland will seek to build on their performance and convert chances more clinically. Qatar must continue showing the fighting spirit they displayed in the final stages.
