World Cup: Why Raul Jimenez was emotional after scoring against South Africa – Thierry Henry

Arsenal legend Thierry Henry explained why Raul Jimenez became emotional after scoring for Mexico in the World Cup opener against South Africa on Thursday.

Jimenez and Julian Quinones gave Mexico a 2‑0 win over South Africa.

The match was Jimenez’s first World Cup appearance, and he had previously recovered from a career‑threatening skull fracture in 2020.

The Wolves striker also lost his father three months ago at the age of 62.

Speaking on Fox, Henry offered a personal perspective on the 35‑year‑old’s reaction at the Mexico City Stadium.

“Why was he emotional? Because I remember everyone thought his career was over, then he came back, but I am sure he was thinking of his dad,” Henry said.

“He was looking at the boxes, and I think he realised his dad was not sitting there and seeing him score at a World Cup at the Estadio Azteca. I will be honest, we are talking about emotion, and we already have a massive emotional moment.”