Though New Zealand were unable to secure a first-ever World Cup win when they faced Iran earlier this week, the All Whites were able to create another piece of history.
The introduction of 21-year-old defender Tyler Bindon in second half injury-time not only helped shore up the New Zealand back-line, but gave the World Cup its first ever mother-son duo.
Tyler’s mother, Jenny Bindon, represented New Zealand at both the 2007 and 2011 Women’s World Cups, as well as the Olympic Games in 2008 and 2012.
The goalkeeper made her international debut in 2004 and earned 77 caps over the following decade.
“A special day for many reasons,” Tyler wrote on Instagram after the 2-2 draw with Iran.
“Proud to represent New Zealand on the biggest stage and incredibly grateful to share the moment with my mum as the first mother-son duo to play at a World Cup.”
Tyler’s father, Grant Bindon, was a captain of New Zealand’s men’s volleyball team.
Nottingham Forest defender Bindon was born in Auckland but moved to California aged 12 when his mother accepted a coaching role with the women’s football team at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
He came through the academy system at MLS side Los Angeles FC before joining Reading in 2023 and then Forest in 2025. He spent last season on loan at Championship side Sheffield United.
While Tyler and Jenny are the first mother-son duo in World Cup history, there have been several instances of fathers and their sons playing in the tournament.
Giovanni Reyna, who scored in the United States’ 4-1 win against Paraguay on Saturday, is the son of former American midfielder Claudio Reyna.
Erling Haaland’s father, Alf-Inge Haaland, represented Norway at the 1994 World Cup.
New Zealand face Egypt in Vancouver (22 June, 02:00 BST) in their second group game.
