Al Annabi opened their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a dramatic 1-1 draw against Switzerland, after Boualem Khoukhi scored deep into stoppage time to secure a valuable point for Qatar in Group B.

Four years after hosting the tournament and making their historic World Cup debut on home soil, Qatar returned to the global stage looking to show a stronger version of themselves. Against an experienced Swiss side, Al Annabi had to endure, stay patient, and fight until the very end.

Switzerland took the lead in the 17th minute through Breel Embolo’s penalty and spent much of the match searching for a second goal. The Swiss side controlled large portions of the game and repeatedly pushed Qatar back, but they could not put the match beyond reach.

That ultimately proved costly for the Swiss side, as their inability to convert several promising chances allowed Qatar to remain within reach and set the stage for a dramatic late twist.

Qatar stayed alive through discipline, determination, and a series of important defensive moments. Goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada made key saves, while the back line worked hard to keep Switzerland frustrated as the match entered its final stages.

Even as the pressure grew, Al Annabi did not lose hope. Akram Afif tried to push Qatar forward, Edmilson Junior caused problems in attack, and the team kept looking for one final chance.

That chance came in the 90+5 minute.

Homam Ahmed sent a late cross into the box, and Khoukhi rose above the Swiss defence to head the ball into the Swiss net. The goal sparked loud celebrations from the Qatari players and fans, turning what looked like a defeat into one of Qatar’s biggest moments on the World Cup stage.

The equaliser meant more than just securing a point. It earned Qatar its first-ever World Cup point and highlighted the determination and resilience of a side eager to prove they belong on football’s biggest stage.

For Al Annabi, the result is a major boost at the start of their Group B campaign. Switzerland had the chances to win, but Qatar had the belief to stay in the match and the courage to take their moment when it came.

Qatar will now turn its focus to its next Group B match against co-hosts Canada in Vancouver, where it will look to build on the momentum of Khoukhi’s dramatic late equaliser.