Article by Alexandru Stanciu – Published Thursday, June 11, 2026 10:17 p.m. / Updated Thursday, June 11, 2026 11:00 p.m.
Mexican Julian Quinones (29 years old) kicked off the 2026 World Cupafter taking advantage of a big South African defensive error in the inaugural match of the final tournament, co-hosted by Mexico, the United States of America and Canada.
With over 80,000 in attendance at the 'Azteca', the Mexicans made a strong start to their opening match against South Africa. Striker Raul Jimenez had the first big chance in the 6th minute, but goalkeeper Williams rejected the volley in the corner.
Julian Quinones scored the first goal of the 2026 World Cup
Only 3 minutes later, Mexico managed to open the scoring, after a blunder of proportions in the defense of South Africa.
Yaya Sithole, the South African defensive midfielder, lost the ball on the edge of his own box under pressure from Erik Lira. The ball found its way to Julian Quinones, who beat Ronwen Williams with a powerful shot between the legs of the South African keeper.
Julian Quinones comes after an exceptional season in the jersey of Al Qadsiah, a team that surprisingly ended the Saudi Arabian Championship in 4th place. The Mexican striker scored 33 goals and provided 4 assists in 31 appearances, and in the last leg he scored a “treble” against Al-Ittihad.
For the first time in the history of the World Cup, the first goal of the tournament was scored by a player born outside the country he represents. Julián Quiñones, born in Colombia, is one of 292 players participating in this competition with the national team of a country other than the one in which they were born.
Mexico – South Africa, starting teams
Mexico (4-1-4-1): Rangel – I. Reyes, C. Montes (capt.), J. Vasquez, J. Gallardo – Lira – Alvarado, B. Gutierrez, Fidalgo, Quinones – Raul Jimenez
reserves: Acevedo, Ochoa, E. Alvarez, Chavez Garcia, L. Chavez, S. Gimenez, A. Gonzalez, Huerta Valera, G. Martinez, G. Mora, Pinedo, Romo, J. Sanchez, O. Vargas, A. Vega
coach: Javier Aguirre
South Africa (5-3-2): R. Williams (capt.) – Mudau, Okon, Sibisi, Mbokazi, Modiba – Mokoena, Sithole, J. Adams – Foster, Rayners
reserves: Chaine, Goss, Appollis, Cross, Kabini, Makgopa, Makhanya, Maseko, Matuludi, Mbatha, Mofokeng, Moremi, Ndamane, Sebelebele, Zwane
coach: Hugo Broos
