Julian Quinones described scoring his first FIFA World Cup goal as a dream come true after inspiring Mexico to a 2-0 victory over South Africa in the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The Mexico forward needed just nine minutes to etch his name into World Cup history, opening the scoring as the hosts made a perfect start to the tournament.
Quinones then played a key role in Mexico's second goal, helping set up Raul Jimenez to seal the victory in the 67th minute.
For the 29-year-old, the occasion carried extra significance as he experienced the thrill of representing Mexico on football's biggest stage in front of passionate home supporters.
"I'm happy and excited to score my first World Cup goal, in such a spectacular stadium with amazing fans," Quinones said after the match.
"It's important for me to acknowledge what my team-mates did to secure the first three points. We've felt the support of the fans these past few days. We're united and today it really showed."
Quinones' performance underlined his importance to the Mexican side as he combined clinical finishing with creative play to help El Tri claim all three points from their opening fixture.
Mexico took control early through Quinones' breakthrough goal and rarely looked troubled throughout the contest. Raul Jimenez eventually added a second after being picked out by Roberto Alvarado, ensuring the hosts began their World Cup campaign in emphatic fashion.
While Quinones celebrated a memorable personal milestone, the forward was quick to emphasise the collective effort behind Mexico's winning start.
Backed by a vocal home crowd, Mexico's players delivered a composed display that will boost confidence ahead of their remaining group-stage matches.
With one goal, an assist contribution and a man-of-the-match performance in the tournament opener, Quinones could hardly have asked for a better introduction to the FIFA World Cup.
For the Mexican forward, it was not just a dream debut on the global stage, but also the perfect way to help his nation begin their quest for World Cup glory.