Qatar vs Switzerland ended in a 1-1 draw in their Group B opener at the World Championship, a match shaped by Switzerland’s early control and Qatar’s late pressure. Breel Embolo gave Switzerland the lead from the penalty spot in the 17th minute, but M. Muheim’s own goal in the 90+4th minute denied the European side victory.

Switzerland started with better structure and looked more composed in the first half. Their midfield shape helped them control central areas, while quick transitions forced Qatar to defend carefully. The breakthrough came after 17 minutes when Embolo converted a penalty to make it 1-0.

Qatar tried to respond by pushing higher, but they struggled to break through Switzerland’s disciplined defensive block. The Swiss side protected central spaces well and forced Qatar into rushed decisions near the penalty area. With the lead secured, Switzerland slowed the tempo and focused on game management.

The second half became more tense as Qatar increased pressure. The Asian side played more directly in the closing stages, sending more balls into dangerous areas and forcing Switzerland deeper. For most of the match, Switzerland appeared to have done enough to take all three points.

Then came the decisive moment in stoppage time. In the 90+4th minute, Muheim turned the ball into his own net under pressure, handing Qatar a dramatic equaliser. The late goal changed the entire mood of the match: Qatar rescued a valuable point, while Switzerland were left to regret a win that slipped away at the end.

Tactically, Switzerland were the more organised side for long spells. They scored early, controlled central zones and made Qatar chase the match. But their conservative approach in the final minutes invited pressure and eventually produced the mistake that changed the result.

Qatar did not dominate the game, but their persistence mattered. The equaliser came through an own goal, yet it was also the result of sustained late pressure and belief until the final whistle.

The 1-1 result leaves Group B open after the first round. Switzerland will feel they dropped two points, while Qatar can take confidence from a late escape that may prove important later in the tournament.

Final score: Qatar 1-1 Switzerland. Goals: M. Muheim 90+4’ own goal; B. Embolo 17’ penalty.