Quiñones Scores Earliest World Cup Opener Goal Since 2006
In the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A opener, Mexico defeated South Africa 1-0 at Azteca Stadium. Julián Quiñones scored in the 9th minute, the tournament's first goal and the earliest in an opening match since Philipp Lahm's 6th-minute goal in 2006. It was Mexico's fastest World Cup goal since 2006 and the third fastest in opening match history. The goal also marked the second fastest South Africa has ever conceded.
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Julian Quiñones' goal helps Mexico easily dispatch Czech Republic
Mexico defeated the Czech Republic 3-0 in Mexico City on June 24, 2026, eliminating the Europeans from the World Cup. Julian Quiñones scored his second goal of the tournament, while Mateo Chavez and Alvaro Fidalgo netted their first international goals. Mexico had already secured top spot in Group A but dominated the second half after a lackluster first half. Veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa made a 78th-minute substitute appearance at age 40, his fourth World Cup. The Czechs, needing a win to advance, offered little offensively and recorded just one shot on target. Mexico's victory, combined with South Africa's 1-0 win over South Korea, sealed the Czech Republic's elimination in their first World Cup since 2006.
Yardbarker: SoccerJulian Quinones Scores First Goal of 2026 World Cup, Silences Mexico's Naturalization Debate
Colombian-born Mexican naturalized forward Julian Quinones scored the first goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup during the opening match against South Africa at the Azteca Stadium, leading Mexico to a 2-0 victory. The goal helped quell a heated controversy over the inclusion of naturalized players in the Mexico national team, known as 'El Tri.' Coach Javier Aguirre selected five dual-national or naturalized players for the squad, a record for Mexico, sparking an identity crisis among fans. Quinones, who moved to Mexico at age 16 and built his career and family there, was defended by former teammate André-Pierre Gignac as culturally Mexican. His goal, combined with his strong performance in the Saudi League (33 goals in 31 matches), validated Aguirre's decision and shifted public sentiment in his favor.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuQuiñones: Unforgettable Day After Scoring World Cup Opener
On June 13, in the World Cup opener, Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0. Forward Quiñones scored the first goal of the tournament. After the match, he posted on Instagram expressing gratitude to fans, calling it an unforgettable day and ending with 'Viva Mexico!' The report originates from Hupu Football News, a Chinese sports media outlet, citing Instagram as the source.
虎扑 - 足球Raúl Jiménez Celebrates First World Cup Goal After Mexico's 2-0 Win Over South Africa
In the World Cup opener, Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0, with veteran striker Raúl Jiménez scoring his first career World Cup goal. After the match, the 35-year-old player expressed his excitement on Instagram, calling it an exciting day and a great start to the World Cup, stating that the team aims to go further. He described the goal as truly special. The news was reported by Hupu Soccer, a Chinese sports media outlet, and sourced from Jiménez's Instagram post.
虎扑 - 足球Klopp slams 2026 World Cup opening match between Mexico and South Africa as low quality
The 2026 World Cup opened on June 11, 2026, with Mexico defeating South Africa 2-0 at the Azteca Stadium in a match marred by three red cards. Former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp harshly criticized the game's quality on ZDF, calling it tactically poor and not a high-level match, noting that South Africa failed to exploit Mexico's deep defense after going down to nine men. 2014 World Cup winner Christoph Kramer echoed the sentiment, comparing the game to a charity match. Mexico will next face South Korea, while South Africa plays the Czech Republic in Group A of the expanded 48-team tournament.
Home Football - actualitésWho's Winning The World Cup? Day One – Tears, Red Cards and Altitude
The Athletic's daily data guide analyzes the opening day of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, with goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez. The match set a record for the dirtiest opening game in World Cup history, with three red cards issued—more than the total red cards in the previous two entire tournaments combined. The analysis highlights Mexico's advantage playing at high altitude (7,365 feet) in Mexico City, where they will play key group and knockout matches. Mexico has historically performed best when hosting, reaching the quarterfinals in 1970 and 1986, but has failed to advance past the round of 16 in the last eight World Cups. The article also notes South Africa's failed acclimatization efforts and provides projections for Mexico's tournament path.
Soccer - The AthleticJavier Aguirre Ends Mexico's World Cup Opening Match Curse with Victory Over South Africa
Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the 2026 World Cup opener, marking the first time in history that an opening match was repeated (same fixture as 2010). Coach Javier Aguirre, a former Real Zaragoza player, broke Mexico's nearly century-long curse of never winning a World Cup debut. Goals from Julio Andrés Quiñones (9th minute) and Raúl Jiménez (67th minute) secured the win. Jiménez, who recently lost his father, scored his first World Cup goal. Aguirre, who took over as El Tri coach in 2024, was critical of his team's first-half performance but praised Jiménez. The article also recounts Aguirre's controversial stint at Real Zaragoza, where he saved the team from relegation in 2011 but was later dismissed. The victory puts Mexico top of Group A alongside South Korea.
Últimas NoticiasMexico Breaks World Cup Opener Curse Under Former Real Zaragoza Coach Javier Aguirre
Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in a repeat of the 2010 World Cup opening match, breaking a long-standing curse of never winning their tournament opener. Goals from Julio Andrés Quiñones (9th minute) and Raúl Jiménez (67th minute) secured the victory. Coach Javier Aguirre, a former Real Zaragoza manager, noted the team's lack of ambition in the first half but praised Jiménez, who scored his first World Cup goal shortly after losing his father. The win puts Mexico atop Group A. The article also recounts Aguirre's bittersweet tenure at Real Zaragoza, where he saved the club from relegation in 2011 but was later dismissed after a poor run.
Últimas NoticiasFormer Zaragoza Coach Javier Aguirre Ends Mexico's Century-Long World Cup Opening Curse
Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the 2026 World Cup opener on June 11, marking the first time in history that an opening match was repeated (the same fixture as the 2010 World Cup opener). The victory broke a nearly century-long curse: Mexico had never won a World Cup opening match in seven previous attempts, managing only two draws. Goals from Julio Andrés Quiñones (9th minute) and Raúl Jiménez (67th minute) secured the historic win. Coach Javier Aguirre, a former Real Zaragoza player and manager, achieved redemption after being sent off in his 1986 World Cup debut against South Africa's current coach Hugo Broos. Aguirre praised Jiménez, who scored his first World Cup goal shortly after losing his father, but criticized his team's lack of ambition in the first half. The article also recounts Aguirre's controversial stint at Real Zaragoza, where he saved the club from relegation in 2011 but was later dismissed.
Últimas NoticiasJavier Aguirre Ends Mexico's World Cup Opening Match Curse with Victory Over South Africa
Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the 2026 World Cup opener, marking the first time in history the country won its opening match in the tournament. The victory, achieved 16 years after the same fixture opened the 2010 World Cup, broke a curse that had seen Mexico lose or draw all seven previous openers. Coach Javier Aguirre, a former Real Zaragoza player and coach, led the team to this milestone. Goals from Julio Andrés Quiñones (9th minute) and Raúl Jiménez (67th minute) secured the win. Jiménez scored his first World Cup goal shortly after losing his father. Aguirre, who took over as Mexico coach in 2024, was critical of his team's first-half performance but praised Jiménez. The article also recounts Aguirre's bittersweet tenure at Real Zaragoza, where he saved the club from relegation in 2011 but was later dismissed.
Últimas Noticias2026 World Cup: South Africa's Disappointing Performance Against Mexico
South Africa's return to the World Cup stage 16 years after hosting the tournament ended in a 2-0 defeat to Mexico at the Estadio Azteca. The match, which opened the 2026 World Cup, saw South Africa (Bafana Bafana) concede an early goal in the 9th minute due to a defensive error by Julián Quiñones. Raúl Jiménez doubled Mexico's lead in the 67th minute with a header. South Africa's performance was marred by two red cards: Sphephelo Sithole was sent off early in the second half, and substitute Themba Zwane received a straight red for striking an opponent. Mexico also had a player sent off. Post-match, South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams expressed disappointment but noted the team could be proud. International media heavily criticized South Africa's performance, with outlets describing them as 'petrified' and 'extremely weak.' The team entered the tournament without a win in their last three friendlies.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertNaturalized Winger Julian Quiñones Scores First World Cup Goal, Leads Mexico to Historic Opener Win
Julian Quiñones, a Colombian-born winger naturalized as a Mexican citizen in 2023, scored his first World Cup goal in Mexico's 2-0 victory over South Africa at the Estadio Azteca. The 29-year-old, who led the Saudi Pro League with 33 goals last season for Al-Qadsiah, had faced criticism for underwhelming performances in 23 previous appearances for Mexico, with only two goals. His ninth-minute goal in the match, Mexico's eighth World Cup opener and first-ever win in such a match, silenced critics and showcased his dribbling, passing, and finishing skills. Coach Javier Aguirre praised his performance, and Quiñones is now seen as a key attacking weapon for Mexico.
虎扑 - 足球Julián Quiñones Becomes Mexico's Key Player in World Cup Opener
Julián Quiñones, the Colombian-born Mexican winger, scored the opening goal of the 2026 men's World Cup as Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 at the Estadio Azteca. Quiñones, who had faced criticism for only scoring twice in 23 appearances for Mexico, delivered a standout performance with five successful dribbles, five shots, and key line-breaking passes. Coach Javier Aguirre defended his decision to start Quiñones on the left wing despite questions about his best position. The goal in the ninth minute energized the home crowd and marked a turning point for Quiñones, who previously starred for Liga MX clubs Tigres, Club América, and Atlas, and recently scored 33 goals for Saudi side Al Qadsiah. The match also featured three red cards, two for South Africa and one for Mexico.
Soccer - The AthleticJulián Quiñones becomes Mexico's new danger man at exactly the right time
Julián Quiñones, the Colombian-born Mexican winger, scored the opening goal of the 2026 men's World Cup in Mexico's 2-0 victory over South Africa at Estadio Azteca. The 29-year-old, who earned Mexican citizenship in 2023, had previously struggled to win over fans with only two goals in 23 appearances for Mexico. However, his ninth-minute goal and dominant performance—including five successful dribbles, five shots, and multiple line-breaking passes—silenced critics and energized the home crowd. Coach Javier Aguirre defended starting Quiñones on the left wing despite questions about his best position. Quiñones, who plays for Saudi First Division side Al Qadsiah, outscored Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema in the Saudi league this season with 33 goals. The win gives Mexico three points in their World Cup opener.
Soccer - The AthleticJulián Quiñones becomes Mexico's key player in World Cup opener against South Africa
Julián Quiñones scored the opening goal in the 2026 men's World Cup as Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 at Estadio Azteca. The Colombian-born winger, who earned Mexican citizenship in 2023, had previously struggled to win over fans with only two goals in 23 appearances for Mexico. However, his ninth-minute goal and dominant performance—including five successful dribbles, five shots, and key line-breaking passes—silenced critics. Coach Javier Aguirre defended his decision to start Quiñones on the left wing despite questions about his best position. The match featured three red cards (two for South Africa, one for Mexico). Quiñones, who plays for Saudi club Al Qadsiah, outscored Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema in the Saudi league last season with 33 goals.
Soccer - The AthleticFIFA World Cup: Mexico wins opening game for the first time
Mexico achieved a historic milestone by winning their opening match of a FIFA World Cup for the first time in seven attempts, defeating South Africa 2-0 on June 11, 2026, in Mexico City. Julian Quinones scored the tournament's opening goal, and veteran striker Raul Jimenez added a second. The victory at Estadio Azteca puts Mexico firmly on course for the knockout rounds from Group A. The article highlights Mexico's previous World Cup opening match record (five defeats, two draws), their overall tournament history since 1930, including two quarterfinal appearances (1970, 1986), their biggest win (4-0 vs El Salvador in 1970), and biggest defeat (0-6 vs West Germany in 1978). Coach Javier Aguirre noted the team overcame stage fright to secure the win.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Midfielder Erik Lira after Mexico's victory in the World Cup opening match: 'We have no limits'
Mexican midfielder Erik Lira expressed confidence after Mexico's 2-0 victory over South Africa in the World Cup opening match at Azteca Stadium in Mexico City on Thursday. Lira, who provided an assist, described the match as emotionally difficult but emphasized the team's mental preparation. He stated that the team has 'no limits' and will not settle for the minimum. The match featured three red cards.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuErik Lira: 'The ceiling is very high, we are not going to settle for anything'
Mexico opened their 2026 World Cup campaign, co-hosted with the United States and Canada, with a 2-0 victory over South Africa at the Estadio Azteca. Midfielder Erik Lira provided an assist to Quiñones early in the match. Lira described the game as emotionally difficult but emphasized the team's mental preparation. He stressed the importance of securing three points and stated that the team's ambitions are high, refusing to settle. Mexico's next group stage match is against South Korea, followed by a match against the Czech Republic.
FútbolMVP Quiñones: 'We are happy, but we have to push harder' after Mexico's World Cup win
Forward Julián Quiñones, who scored the first goal of the 23rd FIFA World Cup, helped Mexico secure a 2-0 victory over South Africa at the Azteca Stadium on June 11, 2026. The Colombian-born Mexican international, who plays for Saudi club Al Qadisiyah, scored in the 9th minute by slipping the ball through goalkeeper Ronwen Williams' legs. After the match, Quiñones expressed happiness but emphasized the need for more pressure in future games. Mexico's Group A also includes South Korea and the Czech Republic. Coach Javier Aguirre's squad aims to build on the opening win.
FútbolChristoph Kramer Calls World Cup Opener 'Like a Charity Match' as Mexico Beats South Africa
Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the 2026 World Cup opening match at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, but the victory was met with boos from home fans due to a passive second-half performance. Julián Quiñones scored early in the ninth minute, but Mexico's lack of aggression and the low intensity of the game drew criticism. ZDF expert and former World Cup winner Christoph Kramer delivered a devastating verdict, calling the match 'like a charity match' and noting the absence of duels. Despite a record three red cards (two for South Africa, one for Mexico), the game lacked emotion. Mexico will next face South Korea and the Czech Republic in Group play.
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