FIFA World Cup 2026 Intensifies as Switzerland and Brazil Scrape Group Stage Draws 

June 14, 2026 ,The 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered another day of drama as both Switzerland and Brazil were forced to settle for draws in their opening group-stage fixtures, keeping their respective groups wide open. 

In Group B, Switzerland looked set to secure all three points after taking an early lead against Qatar through a Breel Embolo penalty. The Swiss controlled much of the match and created several scoring opportunities but failed to extend their advantage. Their missed chances proved costly as Qatar mounted a late comeback. Deep into stoppage time, captain Boualem Khoukhi rose highest to head home an equaliser in the 94th minute, earning Qatar a memorable 1-1 draw and their first point of the tournament. 

The result leaves Group B delicately poised, with every point likely to prove crucial in the battle for qualification to the knockout rounds. Switzerland will rue the missed opportunity, while Qatar can take confidence from their spirited fightback. 

Meanwhile, in Group C, five-time world champions Brazil were held to a 1-1 draw by a determined Morocco side. Morocco struck first in the 21st minute when Ismael Saibari capitalised on defensive lapses to put his side ahead. Brazil responded positively and found an equaliser through Vinícius Júnior in the 32nd minute after a well-worked attacking move. 

Despite enjoying greater possession and creating several chances in the second half, Brazil could not find a winning goal. Morocco defended resolutely and held on for a valuable point against one of the tournament favourites. 

The draws have added further intrigue to the opening stage of the World Cup. Qatar’s late equaliser has reignited their hopes of progressing beyond the group stage, while Morocco’s impressive performance against Brazil has strengthened belief that they could once again emerge as one of the tournament’s surprise packages. 

As the expanded 48-team World Cup continues, the early matches have already demonstrated the competitiveness of the tournament, with even the traditional powerhouses finding victories difficult to secure.