Raul Jimenez scores again at FIFA World Cup 2026 and becomes Mexico’s second all-time top scorer

The veteran Mexican striker has turned the now Estadio Ciudad de México into a truly special venue for him.

Raul Jimenez scored his second goal at a FIFA World Cup and his second of the 2026 edition, a strike that effectively sealed Mexico’s victory over Ecuador. The goal also saw him become the second-highest all-time scorer for the Mexican national team with 47 goals.

A SPECIAL MILESTONE

With his 31st-minute goal in the 2-0 win over Ecuador, RJ9 surpassed Jared Borgetti’s 46 goals and now closes in on Javier “Chicharito” Hernández’s record of 52, the highest in Mexico’s history.

At the same time, Jiménez went from failing to score in three World Cups to netting twice in his fourth appearance on the biggest stage, joining legendary Mexican names such as Fernando Quirarte, Luis Garcia, Alberto Garcia Aspe, Ricardo Pelaez, Javier Valdivia, Manuel Rosas and Omar Bravo, all of whom also scored twice at the World Cup.

His celebration reflected the importance of the moment, as it was his first goal in a knockout-stage match at a World Cup and one that gave Mexico confidence against a dangerous Ecuador side full of stars.

It also served as redemption after his earlier “diving header” miss in the 6th minute and after repeatedly being targeted with fouls throughout the first half.

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HIS LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE AZTECA

His first goal at the FIFA World Cup 2026—and in World Cup history—came in the tournament opener on June 11, the second goal in a 2-0 win over South Africa at Estadio Azteca, a venue that has always suited him.

Once again, the historic stadium was the stage for another memorable moment from Jiménez, this time against Ecuador, a goal celebrated across Mexico and beyond, including at the Ángel de la Independencia, and one that will be remembered for years to come.

It is impossible to speak about Jiménez and the Azteca without recalling his iconic bicycle kick against Panama on October 11, 2013, during a CONCACAF qualifier for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil—a 1-1 draw that helped Mexico avoid elimination in what has always been his footballing home.