Julian Quinones put Mexico ahead in the ninth minute at the Azteca stadium on Thursday. It was the opening goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Quinones seized on a defensive lapse and fired a low shot past goalkeeper Ronwen Williams. Mexico now lead in what has been an entertaining contest so far.
This marks history in the expanded 48-team format debuting this year. Quinones becomes the first player to score in the new competition structure.
Mexico's goal mirrors their opponents' achievement from 2010. South Africa scored the opener in that tournament's opening match 16 years ago.
A victory today would break a 96-year curse for Mexico. They've never won an opening match in any major tournament.
Victory would also extend their unbeaten run at home to eight matches. That streak includes six wins and two draws at the Azteca.
