Julián Quiñones Makes History as First Scorer of 2026 World Cup

Mexico striker Julián Quiñones made history on Thursday by netting the opening goal of the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup just nine minutes into the opening match at Estadio Azteca. Capitalising on a costly defensive error, the 29-year-old fired home from the edge of the box to give the hosts a 1-0 lead over South Africa after Raúl Jiménez had forced an earlier save. The match grew physical after the breakthrough. South Africa’s Teboho Mokoena and Mexico’s Brian Gutierrez were both booked as each side battled for control in midfield.

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