Images: Julián Quiñones of Mexico nets the inaugural score of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Mexico's forward Julian Quinones is seen celebrating his team's first goal in the company of his teammates, including defender Israel Reyes and defender Cesar Montes, during the 2026 World Cup Group A match between Mexico and South Africa held at the Mexico City Stadium on June 11, 2026.

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Julián Quiñones made history on Thursday by scoring the inaugural goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with his name becoming etched in the tournament's records.

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In the ninth minute of the opening match between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Quiñones successfully struck the ball, sparking widespread celebration among the home crowd.

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This goal marked a milestone as the first in the expanded 48-team World Cup, which is being co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada, and also earned Quiñones a special place in the history of the World Cup.

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Playing to a packed audience at the Azteca Stadium, Quiñones was able to capitalize on the early pressure exerted by Mexico and break the deadlock, giving the hosts an ideal start to their campaign.

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The 2026 World Cup, which is the largest tournament in FIFA's history, will feature a total of 104 matches and is set to conclude with the final in New Jersey on July 19.

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By scoring early, Quiñones ensured that he would be remembered as the first goalscorer of the tournament, providing an unforgettable moment for Mexican supporters as the World Cup officially kicked off.