MEXICO CITY, June 11 (Xinhua) -- Julian Quinones scored the first goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as Mexico led South Africa 1-0 at halftime of their tournament opener at Mexico City Stadium.
The Colombia-born forward put the hosts ahead in the ninth minute of the Group A clash, sending a low drive between the legs of goalkeeper Ronwen Williams after Erik Lira's pressing forced a turnover.
Mexico dominated possession and regularly found gaps in South Africa's defense, particularly late in the half.
Quinones went closest to doubling the advantage when his low shot in the 42nd minute rebounded off the far post.
South Africa's only shot on target in the first 45 minutes came from Mbekezeli Mbokazi, but his tame effort was comfortably saved by Raul Rangel.
