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Source: Fox Sports
Summary
Julián Quiñones has been named to the 2026 Ballon d’Or shortlist, becoming the second Mexican player in history to be nominated. He scored 33 goals in 31 Saudi Pro League games, winning the Golden Boot ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo. Quiñones also scored Mexico’s first goal of the 2026 World Cup, becoming the first CONCACAF player to do so. He added three more goals and an assist as Mexico advanced to the round of 16, where they lost to England. Quiñones tied the Mexican World Cup goal-scoring record with four goals.
Our Reading
This one felt recognizable early.
Quiñones scored first, then scored more. Mexico won early, then lost late.
Gold Boot winner, World Cup hero, Ballon d’Or contender — all in one season.
He switched countries, won titles, and made history.
The script is written before the first kick.
Author: Evan Null
