Golden Boot, World Cup star, Goal: Julian Quinones delights Mexico fans on opening night
Golden Boot. Starring role at home FIFA World Cup. Opening night. Goal.
It’s fair to say Julian Quinones has picked up exactly where he left off.
The Al Qadsiah star returned to Roshn Saudi League action on the opening night of the 2026-27 season fresh from a memorable summer with Mexico and promptly reminded everyone that he is the competition’s reigning golden boot.
On Thursday in Riyadh, Quinones grabbed the second of his side’s goals as they came from behind to defeat Al Shabab.
Not a bad way to begin the defence of his RSL top-scorer prize.
“It’s always important to start on the right foot,” Quinones said afterwards. “Today we showed it.”
The Mexican marvel finished last season with a hat-trick to climb to 33 RSL goals and claim the competition’s golden boot. He then carried that fabulous form onto football’s grandest stage, shining for hosts Mexico at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
After etching his name in history by bagging the 2026 tournament opener, Quinones went on to add three more goals.
And, back in Saudi Arabia on Thursday, it didn’t take long for them to start flowing again.
More importantly for Quinones, Al Qadsiah left the capital with all three points after recovering from Hammam Al Hammami putting Al Shabab in front on 15 minutes.
“The team has worked well; they had a good pre-season,” said Quinones, as Al Qadsiah seek to mount another title challenge following last term’s fourth-placed finish.
“And we are still united like last season; we are still working constantly. And that is what brings us good results.”
FormeitisimportantthattheMexicansareheresupporting;thatmotivatesmore,toknowthatSaudifootballisbeingseeneverywhereJulian Quinones, Al Qadsiah and Mexico star
Unity and endeavour weren't the only familiaritites for Quinones: even in the Saudi capital, there were jubilant Mexican fans in the stands.
“For me, it is important that the Mexicans are here supporting,” he said. “That motivates more, to know that Saudi football is being seen everywhere.
“And all the people want to come and see it.”
From RSL golden boot winner to World Cup star, and now straight back among the RSL goals for Al Qadsiah. One match into 2026-27, Quinones is up and running again.
