Switzerland coach Murat Yakin admitted his side had thrown away two valuable points after conceding a stoppage-time equaliser in a 1-1 draw against Qatar in their World Cup Group B opener.
The Swiss controlled much of the match in San Francisco, creating the better chances and dominating possession, but were left frustrated after failing to convert their superiority into a second goal.
“We wanted to be dominant and attacking. We created very good chances, but unfortunately we weren’t efficient enough,” Yakin said.
“At the end of the day, unfortunately, we lost two points.”
Yakin was particularly disappointed with the manner of Qatar’s equaliser, believing his team should have managed the closing stages better after taking the lead.
“It was unnecessary that we lost the ball and allowed the chance,” he said. “It really hurts a lot.”
The Swiss coach refused to single out his substitutes after his side lost control late in the game, insisting responsibility was shared across the team.
“It was not the fault of the substituted players. We are one team, one unit,” he said. “Maybe I need to look at myself and my decisions.”
While Switzerland’s high-pressing approach created numerous opportunities, Yakin acknowledged the tactic carried risks, particularly while protecting a narrow advantage.
He also dismissed the hot conditions and dry pitch as excuses, noting both teams faced the same challenges despite cooling breaks during the match.
Yakin reserved praise for captain Granit Xhaka, describing him as “a true leader” and a key figure within the squad despite the disappointing result.
Switzerland now turn their attention to Thursday’s clash with Bosnia and Herzegovina, with Yakin confident his experienced side can bounce back.
“We want to have a very good World Cup,” he said. “I am convinced that we will do better in the upcoming matches.”
