Julián Quiñones Scores First Goal of 2026 World Cup, Named Man of the Match

Julián Quiñones scored Mexico's first goal of the 2026 World Cup just nine minutes into the match against South Africa, contributing to El Tri's 2-0 victory. The winger received a loose ball from teammate Erik Lira and netted the goal from inside the box. Quiñones' performance led to him being named Man of the Match and receiving a standing ovation when substituted in the 79th minute.

Commentators noted that this was Quiñones’ best performance for Team Mexico since his first cap on November 17, 2023. His recent form has solidified his acceptance among El Tri fans, who have sometimes been hesitant to embrace naturalized players.

Prior to his World Cup debut, the 29-year-old led the Saudi Pro League with 33 goals in 31 games this past season while playing for Al-Qadsiah, surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo's 28 goals.

Julián Andrés Quiñones, who grew up in Magüí Payán, Colombia, arrived in Mexico as an 18-year-old in 2015. He played for Liga MX teams Tigres, Atlas, and Club América, winning six titles. During his time with Club América, he became a naturalized Mexican citizen and received his first call-up to the national team.

Quiñones joined Al-Qadsiah in 2024, adapting to a hybrid winger/central attacker role and honing his skills as a playmaking forward. His progress was observed by Javier Aguirre, who became Mexico coach in July 2024. Despite a hamstring injury in late 2025 and early 2026 that caused him to miss training camps, Quiñones was called up for the March camp and has been a consistent fixture in the squad since May.

His goal at Estadio Azteca surpassed Fernando Quirarte’s 22nd-minute goal in the 1986 World Cup against Iraq, becoming Mexico’s fastest World Cup goal. This achievement further cemented Quiñones' place in the hearts of El Tri fans.

According to Mexico News Daily, Quiñones is establishing himself as one of the Mexican national team's rising stars. (Source: Mexico News Daily)