馃嚦馃嚘NamibiaSouthern Africa
Qatar secures first World Cup point with late equalizer against Switzerland
via The Namibian2 min read
Qatar achieved their first-ever World Cup point by drawing 1-1 with Switzerland in their opening match. Switzerland initially took the lead with a penalty from Breel Embolo in the first half. Despite Switzerland dominating much of the game with 26 shots, Boualem Khoukhi scored a 94th-minute equalizer for Qatar. This match marked Qatar's second appearance in the finals and was their third game since December, following the cancellation of two warm-up friendlies. For Switzerland, who are aiming for their fourth consecutive knockout stage appearance, the inability to secure a win despite their dominance may be a concern for coach Murat Yakin. Qatar will next face co-hosts Canada, while Switzerland will play Bosnia.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
Australia secured a surprising 2-0 victory against Turkey in their World Cup Group D opening match. Coach Tony Popovic's strategic team selections, including starting rookie goalkeeper Patrick Beach over experienced captain Maty Ryan and midfielder Paul Okon-Engstler over vice-captain Jackson Irvine, proved successful. Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scored the goals, while Beach made several crucial saves to deny Turkey, who dominated possession. Okon-Engstler was instrumental in the first goal, setting up Irankunda. Despite Turkey's efforts, including a strong shot from Real Madrid's Arda Guler, they could not overcome Australia's defense and Beach's performance. Metcalfe sealed the win with a goal in the 75th minute. This victory places Australia level on three points with Group D leaders the United States, whom they are scheduled to play next.
Scotland marked their return to the World Cup after a 28-year absence with a 1-0 win against Haiti. John McGinn, captain of Aston Villa, scored the decisive goal just before the half-hour mark at Gillette Stadium. This victory is Scotland's first at a World Cup since 1990 and their first at any major tournament in 30 years. The win places Scotland at the top of Group C, putting them on track for the knockout stages. Haiti, ranked 84th in the world, presented a challenge, with players like midfielder Jean-Ricner Bellegarde and striker Wilson Isidor. Scotland's team, featuring McGinn, captain Andy Robertson, and Scott McTominay, will next face Morocco at the same stadium before playing Brazil in Miami. Morocco and Brazil drew 1-1 in their Group C match. Haiti's participation in the World Cup is notable given the domestic turmoil that prevented them from playing qualifiers at home. Haiti will next play Brazil in Philadelphia.
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