Quinones and Jimenez score as Mexico beats South Africa in World Cup opener

Mexico celebrated a 2-0 victory over South Africa in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, breaking an opening-day curse. Julian Quinones etched his name in history by scoring the tournament's first goal in the ninth minute at the iconic Azteca Stadium.

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The 29-year-old forward was born and raised in Colombia, where he played for the country’s youth and international teams but never at the senior level.

The partisan crowd erupted again in the 67th minute when veteran striker Raul Jimenez added a second goal. The win marked a significant moment for the host nation.

Quinones, 29, born in Colombia, gained Mexican citizenship in 2023 and quickly became a key player for the national team. He now joins football legends like Pele as a World Cup opening scorer. He currently plays for Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah.

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The veteran forward was visibly emotional as he celebrated his first-ever World Cup goal – with a header – in the 67th minute – and there’s a reason for it.

For Jimenez, 35, the goal was a powerful symbol of his comeback after a near-fatal skull fracture in 2020. He has since worn protective headgear and dedicated many of his goals to his late father, who passed away in March. His emotional celebration, including a header, highlighted his resilience and personal journey.

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Since losing his father in March, Jimenez has dedicated many of his goals to his late father as he gestured to the sky and broke down in tears.