The victory of the Mexican team over South Africa left unforgettable images for the tricolor fans, but few as emotional as that of Raúl Jiménez celebrating his first goal in a World Cup through tears.

The Wolverhampton striker was in charge of scoring the national team's second goal and, after sending the ball into the back of the net, he dedicated the score to his father, who died last March.

The scene moved both the fans present at the Mexico City Stadium and millions of spectators who followed Mexico's debut in the 2026 World Cup.

Raúl Jiménez ends a long wait for the World Cups

After several attempts throughout his international career, Raúl Jiménez finally managed to make his debut as a scorer in a World Cup.

The attacker appeared in the 67th minute to connect a precise header that extended the advantage of the Mexican team and led to victory in the opening match of the tournament.

The score represented the end of a personal drought in the World Cup and a moment of enormous significance for one of the most experienced players on the team led by Mexico.

A special dedication to his father

Beyond the sporting importance of the goal, Raúl Jiménez's celebration caught everyone's attention.

After scoring, the striker raised his arms towards the sky in tribute to his father. Moments later, several of his companions ran to hug him and accompany him in a moment full of emotion.

The attacker's tears reflected the personal meaning of a note that came months after a family loss that deeply marked his life.

The Mexican team dominated from the beginning

The national team showed superiority from the first minutes of the match against South Africa.

High pressure, control of possession and constant arrivals to the rival area allowed the Mexican team to quickly take control of the match.

The first goal came thanks to Julián Quiñones, who opened the scoring and unleashed euphoria in the Mexico City Stadium, before Raúl Jiménez widened the difference in the second half.

A closing with arbitration controversy

The match was also marked by several referee decisions that generated debate.

The intensity of the commitment caused multiple infractions and ended with expulsions for both teams. South Africa finished the match with nine players, while Mexico suffered the expulsion of César Montes in the 90th minute.

Despite the incidents, the result allowed the Mexican team to begin its participation in the 2026 World Cup with three valuable points and with reinforced confidence facing the following commitments.