Mexico Scores First Goal of 2026 World Cup at Azteca

In the ninth minute of the opening match of the 2026 World Cup held at Azteca Stadium, Julian Quinon scored the first goal of the tournament for Mexico, putting them ahead 1-0 against South Africa. Quinon, a striker, took advantage of a defensive error to lash home a low shot past goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.

This goal makes Quinon the first player to score in the expanded 48-team format of the World Cup, which was introduced in this year's tournament. Mexico's victory also breaks a 96-year curse of not winning an opening match in the World Cup, securing their first-ever win in such a match.

The win extends Mexico's unbeaten streak at Azteca Stadium to eight matches, comprising six wins and two draws.