When the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off, it was fitting that one of football’s most remarkable stories took centre stage. Julián Quiñones, the Colombian-born striker who chose Mexico as his adopted homeland, became the first player to score at the tournament, giving Mexican fans a moment they will never forget.
Quiñones’ journey is unlike that of most World Cup stars. Born in Colombia, he moved to Mexico at just 17 years old to pursue his football dream with Tigres. What began as a professional opportunity soon became a lifelong commitment. Over the years, he built a successful career in Liga MX, settled in the country, married a Mexican woman, and raised children born on Mexican soil.
His bond with Mexico became official in 2023 when he acquired Mexican citizenship. That same year, Colombia expressed interest in calling him up to their national team. Yet Quiñones followed his heart, turning down his country of birth to represent the nation he had come to call home.
The decision has paid off handsomely for Mexico. After leaving Liga MX for Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadsiah in 2024, Quiñones enjoyed the best season of his career, finishing as the league’s top scorer. His goalscoring exploits saw him outperform some of the game’s biggest names, including Ivan Toney and Cristiano Ronaldo, underlining his status as one of the deadliest forwards heading into the World Cup.
Now, with his name written into World Cup history as the scorer of the tournament’s opening goal, Quiñones has become more than just a footballer. He represents a story of opportunity, loyalty and belonging—a player who embraced a new nation and is now helping carry its hopes on football’s biggest stage.
As Mexico chases World Cup glory on home soil, Julián Quiñones has already delivered one unforgettable moment. Judging by his form and confidence, there could be many more to come.
Story by Achore Richard
Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of The Accra Daily Mail, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.
