Full Breakdown
Mother-Son Duo Makes World Cup History
6/21/2026, 10:51:49 PM
Historic Substitution: First Mother-Son Pair at a World Cup
On 21 June 2026, during New Zealand’s opening group match against Iran at Los Angeles’s SoFi Stadium, defender Tyler Bindon replaced midfielder Marko Stamenic in the 91st minute of a 2-2 draw. The appearance marked the first mother-son pair to play at a FIFA World Cup; the mother is former New Zealand women’s goalkeeper Jenny Bindon, a 2007 Women’s World Cup participant.
The Bindon Family’s Football Journey
Jenny Bindon, born in Illinois, earned 77 caps for New Zealand’s women’s team and played three matches at the 2007 Women’s World Cup. After marrying New Zealand volleyball player Grant Bindon, she settled in New Zealand and later coached at UCLA. Their son Tyler, born in Auckland in 2005, joined the LAFC youth system at 12, moved to England in 2023, and signed with Reading’s Under-21s in August 2023. He advanced to Reading’s senior side, signed with Premier League club Nottingham Forest in January 2025, and spent 2025-26 on loan at Sheffield United. Tyler debuted for the Kiwis in October 2023, played at the 2024 Olympics, and helped the team qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Key Figures & Statistics
Jenny Bindon holds 77 caps and three World Cup appearances; Tyler debuted in the 91st minute of a 2-2 draw. Jenny says she has played 17 sports and that 53 friends, family and former coaches attended the SoFi Stadium match. Together, the Bindons have World Cup experience in two tournaments on two continents.
Significance for New Zealand Football
The mother-son pairing underscores deep football involvement in New Zealand families and a clear pathway from youth academies to senior international play. Their generational presence on the sport’s biggest stage offers a relatable story that could inspire broader participation and strengthen the Kiwis’ community-rooted identity.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s a funny one because [before this World Cup] I said to people, ‘I think this is happening,’” — Jenny Bindon, former goalkeeper
- “Just seeing him on the pitch, with all those people in that beautiful stadium, you’re just like…‘What is happening?’ It’s a pinch me moment.” — Jenny Bindon
- “I think as parents sometimes we live vicariously through our children, but it’s more of a case of how you have to walk next to them, and not in front, or behind.” — Jenny Bindon
Upcoming Matches
New Zealand’s next two group games are in Vancouver. Jenny and Grant are staying in the city, while Tyler remains available for selection as the Kiwis continue their campaign.
