Switzerland take lead against Qatar on penalty goal

Switzerland took the lead against Qatar in their first match of Group ‘B’ of the World Cup. The Swiss took the lead after a brilliant goal by Brill Mbolo in the 17th minute of the match. However, just before this goal, a penalty and VAR drama appeared on the field.

Switzerland got its first penalty opportunity in the 13th minute of the match. Remo Freuler was running at great speed inside the D-box after catching a header from Swiss star Brill Mbolo. But Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada came off the line and severely fouled Freuler. Although the referee blew the penalty whistle directly, the VAR examination took a long time to determine whether the Swiss player was offside.

Former England defender Lee Dixon, who was commentating for ITV at the time, also commented, “There is no doubt about the foul, but he was offside. The goal may not have stood.” Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada received treatment on the field for a short time after the foul.

After checking, the VAR referee upheld the decision on the field and gave the green signal for a penalty. Then, in the 17th minute of the match, forward Brill Embolo put Switzerland ahead 1-0 with a spot-kick. After conceding a goal early, Qatar is now fighting desperately to equalize the match.