Julian Quinones arrived in the United States as the surprise star of Mexico’s World Cup campaign in 2026. Born in the remote Colombian village of Magui Payán, he fled poverty, left amateur side Futbol Paz at 17 and signed for Tigres, later playing for Atlas and Club América. Naturalised in 2023, he now wears the Mexican jersey against England on Monday.

Quinones has already etched his name in tournament history. He netted three goals and added an assist in four matches, the most direct contributions by any Mexican player since records began in 1966. His opening strike came nine minutes in, threading the ball between South Africa’s keeper’s legs, followed by a woodwork hit and a brace against the Czech Republic.

During the group stage he helped Mexico claim six league titles domestically, two with each permanent club, and earned man‑of‑the‑match honours against South Africa and Ecuador. His confidence fuels a side that believes it can reach the knockout rounds, but England’s right‑back will face a daunting task containing a forward who has turned adversity into a World Cup weapon.