Quinones: The Black Mexican player who stole the show in World Cup opener

Julián Quiñones took the spotlight in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup when Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 on June 11, 2026.

Just nine minutes into the tournament, Quiñones etched his name into World Cup history by scoring the opening goal.

The forward capitalized on a costly mistake from South African midfielder Yaya Sithole, who lost possession in a dangerous area, allowing Mexico to punish Bafana Bafana early.

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Mexico dominated much of the first half and could easily have extended their advantage before the break. Raúl Jiménez was denied on multiple occasions by South Africa captain and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, while Quiñones struck the post as the hosts continued to pile pressure on the visitors.

His outstanding performance earned him the Most Valuable Player of the Match (MVP) award, kicking off the tournament in style.

Club Career

In June 2024, Quiñones joined Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadsiah for a reported fee of $16 million, making him the most expensive player ever sold by a Mexican club. He finished the 2024–25 season with 20 goals.

In May 2026, he scored a hat-trick in a 5–1 away victory over Al-Ittihad, finishing the 2025–26 season as the league’s top scorer with 33 goals, overtaking Ivan Toney on the final day of the campaign. That same month, Quiñones renewed his contract with the club until 2029.

International Career – Colombia

Quiñones represented Colombia in youth competitions, first at the 2017 South American U-20 Championship and later at the 2018 Central American and Caribbean Games. However, in May 2023, he declined a call-up to the Colombia national team.

International Career – Mexico

In September 2023, Quiñones joined the training camp of the Mexico national team, having previously declared his intention to represent the country. He completed his naturalization process in October and received his first call-up the following month.

Quiñones made his debut in a CONCACAF Nations League match against Honduras on November 17, 2023.

He scored his first goal in March 2024 during a semi-final against Panama, netting Mexico’s second goal in the 43rd minute. Mexico went on to win the match 3–0.

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