Who is Julian Quinones? Mexico's Opening Goal Scorer in World Cup 2026 is Not a Mexican, He was Born in....

Mexico have taken an early lead in the World Cup 2026 opener against South Africa at the Estadio Azteca.

The Mexicans scored the first goal of the match in the 9th minute as Julian Quinones pounced on a mistake from the Bafana Bafana, and netted a fantastic goal.

Who is Julian Quinones?

Julián Quinones was born on March 24, 1997, in Magüí Payán, a remote town in Colombia’s Nariño region, is a professional footballer who plays as a forward and winger. Standing at 1.77 m (5 ft 10 in), the right-footed striker now represents Mexico internationally and currently stars for Saudi Pro League club Al-Qadsiah.

Club Career

Quiñones’ journey began in Colombia before he moved to Mexico, joining Tigres UANL’s youth system in 2015. He made his professional breakthrough with loans and stints at Venados and Lobos BUAP. He truly shone at Atlas FC, where he helped secure back-to-back Liga MX titles in 2021-22 (Apertura and Clausura) along with the Campeón de Campeones. He later joined powerhouse Club América, adding more Liga MX silverware in 2023-24.

In 2024, he transferred to Al-Qadsiah, where he exploded in the 2025-26 season, scoring a remarkable 33 goals in 31 league appearances to claim the Saudi Pro League Golden Boot.

International Career

Born in Colombia, Quiñones switched allegiance to Mexico after naturalization. He has won 13 major titles overall, including CONCACAF Gold Cup and Nations League honors with Mexico. He even scored the opening goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against South Africa.

Unique Facts

Known for his clinical finishing, pace, and work rate, the “Jaguar” (his nickname) rose from humble beginnings to become one of Liga MX’s most decorated players before conquering Saudi Arabia. At 29, Quiñones embodies resilience and adaptability, turning geographic challenges into a glittering, cross-continental career.