A historic moment unfolded in the world of soccer as a mother and son duo from New Zealand both participated in a World Cup for the first time.
Tyler Bindon, a center back for Nottingham Forest, entered the field for New Zealand in their World Cup match against Iran, becoming the first mother-son pair to achieve this milestone. His mother, Jenny Bindon, previously a goalkeeper for New Zealand from 2004 to 2014, boasted an impressive career, having competed in the Women’s World Cup in 2007 and 2011, as well as the Olympic Games in 2008 and 2012.
In a thrilling match where New Zealand tied 2-2 with Iran, Tyler, aged 21, made a late appearance as a substitute player. His proud parents watched from the stands in Inglewood, California.
Expressing his gratitude on Instagram, Tyler shared his joy at representing New Zealand on the grand stage of the World Cup alongside his mother. Tyler’s sporting journey began in the Los Angeles FC academy system, where both of his parents have excelled in their respective athletic careers.
Grant Bindon, Tyler’s father, once led New Zealand’s volleyball team as its captain. The Bindon family relocated to California when Tyler was 12, following Jenny’s appointment as an assistant coach for UCLA’s women’s team.
Reflecting on Tyler’s upbringing, Jenny highlighted how witnessing her own participation in World Cups and Olympics inspired him to pursue a professional football career. She remarked on the nerves she experiences watching Tyler play, but also expressed immense pride in his character and abilities.
The upcoming match for the All Whites is against Egypt in Vancouver, British Columbia, following Egypt’s 1-1 draw with Belgium in their previous game. Notably, over 20 father-son duos have graced the World Cup stage, including Claudio Reyna and his son Gio, who scored for the United States in a recent victory over Paraguay, as well as Erling Haaland, the talented striker from Manchester City and Norway, who netted two goals in his World Cup debut. Erling is the son of former World Cup participant Alf-Inge Haaland.
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