Mexico Begin FIFA World Cup 2026 in Style as Julián Quiñones Inspires Victory Over South Africa
Host nation Mexico kicked off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with an impressive victory over South Africa, delighting a packed Mexico City Stadium and millions of supporters worldwide.
Forward Julián Quiñones etched his name into World Cup history by scoring the tournament's opening goal, helping Javier Aguirre's side secure a commanding win in the first match of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Mexico started brightly, creating their first major opportunity within five minutes. Israel Reyes delivered a dangerous cross from the right, and Raúl Jiménez's powerful effort forced South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams into an excellent save.
The breakthrough arrived shortly afterward when Erik Lira won possession deep in South Africa's half. The ball fell kindly to Quiñones, who calmly slotted his shot through Williams' legs to send the home crowd into celebration.
Despite trailing by only one goal at halftime, South Africa faced an uphill battle after the restart. Their task became even more difficult when Sphephelo Sithole was shown a red card for bringing down Jiménez as he raced through on goal.
Moments later, 17-year-old Gilberto Mora entered the match to a thunderous reception from the Mexican fans, including boxing superstar Canelo Álvarez. Within a minute of his introduction, Mexico doubled their lead. Quiñones combined brilliantly with Jiménez before setting up Roberto Alvarado, whose cross was expertly headed home by Mexico's number nine.
The match also produced another historic milestone. At 17 years and 240 days, Gilberto Mora became the sixth-youngest player ever to appear in a FIFA World Cup and the youngest player to represent a host nation in tournament history.
Your @MichelobUltra Superior Player of the Match is Julián Quiñones. 👑
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 11, 2026
#FIFAWorldCup #SuperiorPOTM pic.twitter.com/Cc7ZsOdUJK
Speaking after the match, Quiñones expressed his delight at scoring on football's biggest stage.
"I’m happy and excited to score my first World Cup goal, in such a spectacular stadium with amazing fans. It’s important for me to acknowledge what my teammates did to secure the first three points. We’ve felt the support of the fans these past few days. We’re united and today it really showed," he said.
The victory gives Mexico a perfect start to their home World Cup campaign and strengthens hopes of a deep run in the expanded 48-team tournament.
