Stoppage-time header by Khoukhi gives Qatar historic 1-1 draw with Switzerland
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Santa Clara: Qatar salvaged a dramatic late draw to earn their first-ever World Cup point on foreign soil, Levelling against Switzerland 1-1 in Group play at Levi’s Stadium on Saturday.
Breel Embolo had given Switzerland the lead from the penalty spot in the 17th minute after Mahmoud Abunada fouled Remo Freuler in the box. Switzerland dominated possession and chances thereafter, finishing with 25 attempts and repeatedly testing goalkeeper Gregor Kobel; Michel Aebischer even had a goal cleared off the line before halftime.
Qatar threatened on the break through Edmilson Junior, but it was deep into stoppage time that they produced the decisive moment. In the fourth minute of added time Homam Ahmed whipped in a cross from the left and Boualem Khoukhi rose at the far post to power a header past Kobel, prompting jubilant celebrations and denying the Swiss the win.
Switzerland rued missed opportunities from Juan Vargas and Embolo late on. The draw also saw Ricardo Rodriguez and Granit Xhaka extend their joint national record to 13 FIFA World Cup appearances.
The result keeps Qatar’s tournament hopes alive and marks a historic milestone for the Gulf nation, while Switzerland leave frustrated after controlling large parts of the match.
(Inputs from IANS)