Julián Quiñones should be the starter in Mexico’s attack in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 29-year-old striker, from Al Qadsiah, Saudi Arabia, arrives as one of the main scorers in the world this season and is Javier Aguirre’s offensive reference for the duel against South Africa, this Thursday (11), at the Azteca Stadium, in Mexico City. Kick-off is scheduled for 4pm (Brasília time).
Born on March 24, 1997 in Magüí Payán, Colombia, Julián Andrés Quiñones Quiñones is 1.77m tall and stands out for his speed, eye for goal, powerful finishing and ability as a center forward or winger. Naturalized as a Mexican in 2023, he is consistently called up for the national team and arrives at the World Cup at home at the peak of his form.
Quiñones trajectory and moment
After starting in Colombia and spending time at Mexican clubs such as Tigres, Atlas and América — where he won Liga MX titles —, Quiñones moved to Al Qadsiah in 2024. In the 2025/2026 season, he was the top scorer in the Saudi Pro League with 33 goals, showing high performance. In the national team, he already has important goals and performances, including winning the Gold Cup, and represents the scoring option that Aguirre seeks for the tricolor attack.
Mexico enters as favorite in Group A, which also includes South Korea and the Czech Republic. With the support of more than 87,000 fans at the legendary Azteca, the team needs to get off to a good start in the expanded competition. Quiñones will be essential in converting the chances created by the midfield and putting pressure on the South African defense with his offensive presence.
Probable lineups
Mexico (4-3-3): Raúl Rangel; Jorge Sánchez (or Israel Reyes), César Montes, Johan Vásquez, Jesús Gallardo; Erik Lira, Álvaro Fidalgo (or Edson Álvarez), Roberto Alvarado; Brian Gutiérrez, Raúl Jiménez,Julian Quiñones.
South Africa (4-2-3-1): Ronwen Williams; Khuliso Mudau, Mothobi Mvala (or Okon), Nkosinathi Sibisi, Aubrey Modiba; Teboho Mokoena, Sphephelo Sithole; Themba Zwane, Elias Mokwana (or Oswin Appollis), Oswin Appollis; Lyle Foster.
Wilton Pereira Sampaio in arbitration
Brazilian Wilton Pereira Sampaio leads the match, with assistants Bruno Pires and Bruno Boschilia. It is the first time that a Brazilian referee has refereed the opening of a World Cup.
Where to watch live
In Brazil, transmission will be widespread. TV Globo and SBT show it live on open TV. SporTV, NSports and ge (Globoplay) cover closed TV and streaming. CazéTV, on YouTube, also broadcasts the game.