Qatar snatch a 1-1 draw with Switzerland as Muheim's late own goal levels it
Embolo's penalty put Switzerland ahead, but Muheim's 90th-minute own goal rescued Qatar at the 2026 World Cup.
Qatar and Switzerland served up a dramatic 1-1 draw at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, one of the major US venues for the 2026 World Cup. The imposing Californian ground, holding 68,827 spectators and known for its cutting-edge technology and open plaza, hosted a thrilling Group B clash at this 48-team World Cup staged by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Switzerland went ahead early. In the 17th minute, Breel Embolo converted a penalty to put Murat Yakin's side in front, lined up in a 4-3-3 with Granit Xhaka pulling the strings in midfield and Manuel Akanji marshalling the defence. The Swiss lead held for almost the entire match.
Just as a Swiss win looked secure, the drama struck. In the 90th minute, an own goal from Miro Muheim restored parity for a Qatar side that battled to the end. Julen Lopetegui's team, also in a 4-3-3 and built around talisman Akram Afif, were rewarded for their persistence. The match had its edge: Qatar saw yellows for Mahmud Abunada (16') and Jassem Gaber (23'), while Switzerland's Denis Zakaria (42') was cautioned.
Levi's Stadium, a regular home of American football, witnessed an electric finish that rewarded Qatari belief against a Switzerland that paid dearly for failing to put the game to bed.
The split leaves both nations on one point in Group B, a result especially valuable for Qatar given how it was earned and bittersweet for Switzerland, who saw two points slip away late on their 2026 World Cup bow.