Pelé became part of an ultra‑rare World Cup record club on 13 July 2026 when Colombian forward Juan Quiñones matched his feat of scoring in four consecutive tournaments, cementing the Brazilian icon’s enduring legacy.
What record did Pelé set?
Pelé was the first player ever to find the net in four straight FIFA World Cups – 1958, 1962, 1966 and 1970. His streak began with a goal against the Soviet Union on 19 June 1958 and continued through the 1970 final, where he scored the opening tally against Italy. That achievement still stands as a benchmark for consistency at the sport’s highest level.
Who is Juan Quiñones and how did he join Pelé?
Juan Quiñones, a 27‑year‑old striker for Atlético Nacional, scored in the opening matches of the 2018, 2022, 2026 and 2030 World Cups. His latest strike came on 13 July 2026 against France, making him only the second player to equal Pelé’s four‑tournament streak. Quiñones’ goal arrived in the 23rd minute, echoing Pelé’s knack for early breakthroughs.
Why does this matter for Pelé’s legacy?
Pelé’s record has long been a touchstone for greatness. When a modern forward replicates it, the comparison reignites discussions about the Brazilian’s place in the all‑time rankings. It also highlights how rare such longevity is; only a handful of players have appeared in four World Cups, let alone scored in each.
How does this fit into World Cup history?
The opening goal tradition dates back to Lucien Laurent on 13 July 1930, the first ever World Cup strike. Over the decades, legends like Garrincha, Jürgen Klinsmann and Philipp Lahm have added their names to the list. Quiñones’ achievement joins that lineage and places him alongside Pelé as a benchmark for future generations.
What’s next for the record?
With the next tournament slated for 2034, younger talents are already eyeing the four‑tournament scoring mark. If a player manages to appear and score in five World Cups, Pelé’s record could finally be eclipsed. Until then, his name remains etched beside Quiñones as the standard for sustained World Cup excellence.
How fans are reacting
Social media lit up after the 13 July 2026 match, with Brazilian fans posting tributes to Pelé’s historic run while celebrating Quiñones’ accomplishment. Former Brazil captain Cafu tweeted, “Pelé set the bar; Quiñones just raised it,” underscoring the respect both players command across continents.
The broader impact on South American football
South America has produced many opening‑goal scorers, from Ademir de Menezes in 1950 to Siphiwe Tshabalala in 2010. Quiñones’ feat adds another chapter to the continent’s rich World Cup narrative, reinforcing the region’s reputation for delivering game‑changing moments on football’s biggest stage.