By Jorge Hernandez
The night was perfect for Julian Quiñones. The attacker of the Mexico team not only opened the scoring in the victory over South Africabut also wrote his name in history by scoring the first goal of the World Cup 2026 and be distinguished as the MVP of the match.
As a finishing touch, the recognition was presented by the Mexican champion Saúl “Canelo” Álvarezwho starred in one of the most outstanding moments after the opening match of the tournament.
The performance of Quinones It was decisive from the first minutes. Just in the 9th minute, the forward of the Al-Qadsiah He took advantage of an opportunity in front of the goal to score the first goal of the match and become the team’s first scorer. World Cup 2026.
Beyond the score, the attacker was one of the most active figures in the match, generating constant danger on the South African defense and participating in several of the most important offensive actions of the Mexican team.
His performance was key for the Mexican National Team will begin its participation in the most important tournament in world football with victory.
Canelo Álvarez presents the award to the best player of the match
After the closing whistle, Julian Quiñones received recognition as MVP of the matchan award that was given to him by the historic Mexican boxer Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez.
The image of two of the most prominent Mexican athletes of the moment captured the attention of fans and social networks, becoming one of the most talked about moments of the opening day of the World Cup 2026.
After receiving the award, the forward shared his excitement for having had an unforgettable night with the national shirt.
“I am happy and excited to have scored my first goal in a World Cup, in such a spectacular stadium and in front of such an incredible fan,” he said.
Quiñones highlights the collective work of the Mexican team
Despite the individual recognition, the attacker made it clear that the victory was the result of the joint effort of the entire team.
The forward highlighted the unity that exists within the group and thanked the Mexican fans for their support, who filled the stands and encouraged the team throughout the match.
“For me it is important to recognize the merit of my teammates for having achieved the first three points. We have felt the support of the fans in recent days; we are united, and today it was really noticeable,” commented Quiñones at the end of the game.
Keep reading:
– Mexico starts the 2026 World Cup on the right foot by beating South Africa
– Son Heung-min does not believe that the 2026 World Cup will be his farewell
– Canelo Álvarez made a juicy bet in favor of Mexico for the start of the 2026 World Cup






