Raul Jimenez: This Goal Is For My Father

Mexico striker Raul Jimenez couldn't hide his emotions after the 2-0 victory over South Africa. He scored his team's second goal and dedicated it to his late father.

“When the ball went in, the first thing I did was look up at the stands of Estadio Azteca. Out of habit, I searched for my father... and in that moment, I realized he wasn't physically there to see me score at a World Cup at home. This goal is entirely for him. It was an incredibly emotional moment; I just couldn't hold back my tears. I've waited for this goal through four World Cups, and to achieve it right here, in front of our people, is a miracle,” Jimenez began.

He also spoke about the severe injury that nearly ended his career.

“If someone had told me a few years ago, when I suffered the skull fracture, that I would be leading Mexico's attack at the opening of a home World Cup and score, I wouldn't have believed them. The doctors at the time told me it was a miracle I was even alive. I never gave up; I kept working, and today is proof that faith and hard work pay off,” Raul added.

Finally, he shared Mexico's big goal for this World Cup.

“This is just the first step of three group stage matches. Our goal is to finish first in the group. We have to take it game by game, but I'm not afraid to say it: I see this team going all the way and lifting the World Cup trophy in New York. We have the strength, we have the fans; now we just need composure,” the veteran concluded.