Queensland repelled a determined late fightback by New South Wales to triumph 16-10 in the first State of Origin match at Sydney’s Accor Stadium.
The Maroons defended furiously in the closing stages as Cameron Murray crossed in the 73rd minute to set up a tense finale before Isaah Yeo was stopped a metre short with just seconds remaining.
It was Queensland's first victory in Sydney since 2017, securing a 1-0 lead when they go to Perth on June 26 for the second game in the series.
Jack Wighton's try earned the Blues an initial advantage before debutant Selwyn Cobbo's grubber set up Dane Gagai to grab his 12th Origin score.
The conversion from Valentine Holmes gave Queensland a 6-4 lead at half-time and captain Daly Cherry-Evans burst through from the back of the scrum to give them some breathing space after the turnaround.
Kalyn Ponga then sent Holmes through with a superb pass to put the Maroons 12 points up - but they had to battle for the victory in the closing stages.
Felise Kaufusi and Ponga made the vital tackle to keep out Yeo right at the death and ensure their side's success.