Henderson makes history as England march on at World Cup

The stands of a packed stadium echoed with the chants of England supporters on Saturday, their voices rising as Jordan Henderson stepped onto the field for his record-breaking moment. At 36 years old, Henderson became the first England player to feature in four World Cups, a milestone achieved as a late substitute in the 2-0 win over Panama. The result secured England’s top spot in Group L and set up a last-32 clash with DR Congo. Henderson’s World Cup journey began in 2014, a tournament where the England squad exited at the group stage under Roy Hodgson. Since then, he has played key roles in the runs to the semi-finals in 2018 and the quarter-finals four years later. His role in this tournament has evolved, but his commitment remains undimmed as England target their first knockout-stage glory since 1966. “Time goes very quickly,” Henderson said after the match. “It’s very special to represent my country at four World Cups. I’m just delighted to be a part of this team and it’s still as special now as it was when I made my debut.”

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England’s victory over Panama confirmed their progression as group winners, a position that offers a clearer route through the knockout stages compared to finishing second. Henderson acknowledged the challenge ahead, emphasizing the importance of calm and belief in the high-pressure environment of knockout football. “Knockout football is just about staying calm in this moment, believing in what we’ve achieved so far to get here,” he said. “We’ve got an incredible squad of players, it’s been a decent start in the group. Winning the group is not easy, so first and foremost I think the lads deserve a bit of credit for that.” England’s next opponent, DR Congo, is ranked 41st in the world but showed resilience in their group, taking four points including a 1-1 draw with Portugal. Newcastle forward Yoane Wissa scored for DR Congo in that match, a player Henderson is familiar with. “So a good team, some good players, very strong,” Henderson said of DR Congo. “In the knockout rounds no game is easy.”