The first goal was scored at the World Cup in Mexico City
On Thursday, June 11, the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off in Mexico City with a match between Mexico and South Africa, in which one of the teams has already scored a goal.
Julian Quiones scored the first goal in the ninth minute. After a mistake by the South Africans near the penalty area, the forward intercepted the ball and sent it precisely into the right corner of the net.
Mexico will host the World Cup for the third time in history and will try to repeat its best results, as the team reached the quarterfinals in its two previous home World Cups. This time, the team’s core remains its experienced players, led by Raúl Jiménez, Irving Lozano, and legendary goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa. At the same time, coach Javier Aguirre is relying not only on veterans but also on the younger generation, among whom 17-year-old talent Gilberto Mora is drawing particular attention and could become one of the tournament’s breakout stars.
As a reminder, the FIFA World Cup officially kicked off on June 11 in Mexico. The festive opening ceremony took place at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk called on the U.S. to review its immigration and security policies ahead of the World Cup.
The World Cup is set to begin in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. Earlier, FIFA banned a new tactical practice ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
