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Published Jun 17, 2026Updated Jun 181
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Xhaka urges Switzerland to "take a reality check" after Qatar draw
Switzerland were held 1-1 by Qatar after conceding a late equaliser in their World Cup opener, despite dominating play and creating more chances. Granit Xhaka said the team must improve its composure and efficiency, and cautioned against unrealistic expectations after the setback.
Quick Facts
- Switzerland drew 1-1 with Qatar
- Boualem Khoukhi scored a 94th-minute equaliser
- Breel Embolo scored from a penalty for Switzerland
- Granit Xhaka called for the team to self-assess
- Switzerland produced 26 shots but failed to win
Switzerland were held to a 1-1 draw by Qatar in their World Cup opener after conceding a stoppage-time equaliser from Boualem Khoukhi in the 94th minute. Murat Yakin’s side had led through a Breel Embolo penalty and controlled much of the match, but they were unable to add to their advantage despite creating a stream of chances.
The result left Switzerland frustrated after failing to turn a dominant performance into three points. They registered 26 shots, which Goal reported was their highest total in a World Cup match since records began in 1966, yet they still left with only a point.
Granit Xhaka said Switzerland’s main problem was a lack of composure and efficiency in front of goal. Speaking to beIN Sports, he said that when chances are not taken, teams are punished, and added that Switzerland lost their rhythm late in the game and should have been more intelligent in protecting a 1-0 lead.
Xhaka also warned against overestimating Switzerland’s prospects at the tournament after the setback. He said the team must "come back to reality" and is not yet ready to talk about titles, as they look to recover against Bosnia and Herzegovina in their next Group B match.
Why This Matters
The draw is a warning sign for Switzerland’s World Cup campaign: strong possession and chances are not enough without finishing and game management. For readers tracking the tournament, the result suggests Switzerland may struggle against more clinical opponents unless they convert pressure into goals and protect leads better.