Mexican forward Julián Quiñones not only made history by scoring the first goal of the 2026 World Cup in the opening match against South Africa, but also drew attention for the way he celebrated it.
This was the South African dance:
After sending the ball into the back of the net, Quiñones performed a dance that many fans immediately identified as a reference to Siphiwe Tshabalala’s iconic celebration at South Africa 2010, when the African side scored against Mexico in the opening match of that World Cup.
On social media, the jokes were not lacking: some claimed it was a fun “revenge” 16 years later, while others simply applauded the soccer nod. The truth is that the celebration went as viral as the goal itself and sparked an entertaining debate among fans.
Tribute, joke, or a small sporting revenge? The internet still can’t agree.
Here is the recent dance: