FIFA World Cup: Qatar score dramatic late equaliser in shock draw with Switzerland

The European side had taken the lead in the 17th minute when Breel Embolo converted a penalty but the Asian champions showed their fighting spirit to take a point from the contest.

The Swiss came into the game as overwhelming favourites to start the global campaign on a winning note, and the started strongly on a sweltering day in San Francisco.

The European country's strong start was rewarded when Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada clattered into forward Remo Freuler, leaving the referee no choice but to give a spot-kick.

Embolo sent Abunada the wrong way as Switzerland looked well on their way to earning maximum points in their World Cup opener.

The Swiss will be regretting wasting several good opportunities to extend their lead as Dan Ndoye, Ruben Vargas and Embolo missed gilt-edged chances.

Qatar looked to just be hanging on for most of the contest but their resolute defensive effort was rewarded deep into stoppage-time when Khoukhi came from deep and powered in a header at the back-post.

Switzerland next face Bosnia-Herzegovina in Los Angeles on Thursday, while Qatar will travel to Vancouver to take on co-hosts Canada on the same day.

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