Mexico's Quinones Scores First Goal of FIFA World Cup 2026 in Mexico City
Published June 11, 2026
Julian Quinones etched his name into World Cup history by scoring the opening goal of the 2026 tournament for Mexico against South Africa, igniting a fervent crowd in Mexico City.
Published — local time around the world
The FIFA World Cup 2026 officially kicked off today, with Mexico City hosting a momentous opening match that saw the first goal of the tournament scored by a home nation player. Julian Quinones found the back of the net in the ninth minute, sending the Estadio Azteca – temporarily rebranded as Mexico City Stadium for the event – into an ecstatic frenzy.
The pivotal moment unfolded after Erik Lira intercepted a pass from the South African side, setting up Quinones. The forward then drove towards the goal and unleashed a right-footed shot, securing Mexico's early lead. This electrifying start followed an emotional rendition of the national anthem, further amplifying the atmosphere within the iconic stadium, which has previously hosted two World Cup finals.
The opening ceremonies, showcasing all 48 nations participating in this expanded tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, preceded the match. FIFA President Gianni Infantino was present, alongside the coveted World Cup Trophy, to witness the start of what promises to be an unforgettable global spectacle. For Mexico, scoring first in a World Cup match often bodes well; historical data suggests they have a strong record when taking an early lead.