Boualem Khoukhi became an instant national hero in Qatar after his stoppage-time equalizer against Switzerland delivered the country’s first World Cup point in regulation tournament history.
Television replays showed Khoukhi arriving at a cross or loose ball in the penalty area as Swiss defenders failed to clear, sparking chaotic celebrations along the touchline.
Qatari social media flooded with clips of the goal within minutes, with officials and former players hailing the moment as a milestone for the small nation’s football program.
Swiss coach staff appeared stunned on the bench as a comfortable lead evaporated in the final minutes of a match played under intense California sun.
Analysts said the dramatic finish illustrated how expanded World Cup formats can produce historic firsts even in group-stage draws that might otherwise pass quietly.
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Sources:
https://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2026/jun/13/qatar-v-switzerland-world-cup-2026-live?page=with:block-6a2dbc0b8f08b3c2b5d2e8b7