Mexico forward Julián Quiñones carved his name into World Cup history after scoring the opening goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The striker found the back of the net in the ninth minute of the tournament’s opening fixture between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, sparking wild celebrations among the home fans.
Quiñones’ strike became the first goal of the expanded 48-team World Cup, which is being staged across Mexico, United States and Canada.
The goal also secured the forward a unique place in World Cup history as the tournament’s first scorer.
Backed by a capacity crowd at the iconic Estadio Azteca, Quiñones took advantage of Mexico’s bright start, converting early pressure into the breakthrough goal and handing the hosts a perfect opening to their campaign.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the largest edition in the competition’s history, features 104 matches and will culminate with the final in New Jersey on July 19.
Quiñones’ historic effort ensured he became the first player to score at the tournament, delivering a memorable moment for Mexican supporters as the World Cup officially got underway.
Mexico’s Julián Quiñones goal (video)
🚨 JULIÁN QUIÑONES of Mexico 🇲🇽 is the FIRST player to score at the 2026 FIFA World Cup #FIFAWorldCup #2026 pic.twitter.com/okClybY3ez
— NewsClick Nigeria Media (@NewsClickng) June 11, 2026
