FROM NEAR-DEATH INJURY TO WORLD CUP GLORY — Jiménez’s Tearful Night

Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 on opening night, but all eyes were on Raúl Jiménez as he fought back tears after his emotional goal. One of football’s greatest comeback stories just hit another chapter.

A man who overcame the fear of death finally scored a goal on the World Cup stage. Raul Jimenez, 35 years old, Wolverhampton, scored his first World Cup goal and brought the host nation Mexico a victory in the opening match.

Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the first Group A match of the 2026 Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) North-Central American World Cup held at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on the 12th, Korean time.

The star of the match was undoubtedly Jimenez. Mexico took the lead in the 9th minute of the first half with Julian Quiñones’ opening goal. However, it was Jimenez who drove the final nail into the coffin.

In the 22nd minute of the second half, Roberto Alvarado delivered a cross from the right flank, and Jimenez connected it with a powerful header. The ball flew straight into the corner of the net, sending the 80,000 spectators at Estadio Azteca into a frenzy.

Immediately after scoring, Jimenez could not contain his emotions. He ran to his teammates, tears welling in his eyes as he savored the joy.

The UK’s BBC reported, “Jimenez shed tears of joy after scoring his first World Cup goal.”

This goal holds significance beyond just a simple score. In November 2020, while playing for Wolverhampton against Arsenal, Jimenez suffered a fatal collision with David Luiz, resulting in a skull fracture. The injury was severe enough to threaten his life, and his ability to continue his football career was uncertain.

He did not give up. After a long rehabilitation, he returned to the pitch and re-emerged as a central striker for the Mexican national team.

Even at 35, he continues to lead the team from the front.

BBC evaluated, “The emotions Jimenez displayed after scoring showed how significant this match was for him.”

Indeed, Jimenez showed exceptional determination from the start of the game. In the 4th minute of the first half, he attempted a powerful half-volley shot, but it was saved by South Africa’s goalkeeper Ronwen Williams. However, he eventually created his moment.

Mexico secured three points with Jimenez’s goal, defeating South Africa 2-0. Hosting the World Cup for the third time after 1970 and 1986, Mexico made a perfect start in front of their home fans.

Although there was an adverse event as starting defender Cesar Montes was sent off late in the game, this day belonged to Jimenez.