Who Scored the First Goal of the FIFA World Cup 2026?

The answer to ‘who scored first goal FIFA World Cup 2026’ is Julian Quiñones, who made history by netting the tournament's opening goal in the 9th minute. The Mexican forward etched his name into the record books by scoring the first goal of the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup, giving fans an unforgettable moment on the opening day.

Julian Quiñones' early strike set the tone for the tournament and instantly became one of the biggest talking points of the competition's curtain-raiser. His clinical finish ensured he would forever be remembered as the player who opened the scoring in the 2026 edition of football's biggest event.

First Goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup 2026

The First goal World Cup 2026 came in the 9th minute through Julian Quiñones, who capitalized on a costly defensive mistake by South Africa. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams played a routine pass to Sphephelo Sithole, but a heavy touch allowed Erik Lira to win possession and set the attack in motion.

Lira's quick intervention created the opportunity for Quiñones, who reacted first inside the box and calmly slotted his shot through the goalkeeper's legs to make it 1-0 for the Mexico national football team. The midfielder was officially credited with the assist after his ball recovery and involvement in the build-up.

The strike carried extra significance as it became the opening goal of the first-ever 48-team FIFA World Cup, making Quinones the first player to score in the expanded format of football's biggest tournament. His ninth-minute finish ensured his name would be permanently etched into World Cup history.