2026 World Cup: England captain, Henderson stretchered off following post-match celebration accident

England midfielder Jordan Henderson has suffered a serious wrist injury after England’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.

The 36-year-old was injured while celebrating after the final whistle at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. Henderson reportedly fell over an advertising board and had to be taken off the pitch on a stretcher.

England manager Thomas Tuchel confirmed after the match that the injury appears serious.

“Jordan fell and injured his wrist. It looks really bad,” Tuchel said. “The doctors have taken him to hospital. It’s unfortunate because it spoils what was a great night for us.”

Henderson, who has only played six minutes at the tournament so far, will not travel back with the rest of the England squad as he remains under medical care.

England are preparing for a World Cup quarter-final clash against Norway on Saturday, but Henderson’s participation is now highly doubtful.

The former Liverpool captain could join defender Reece James on the injury list. James has been sidelined with a hamstring problem since England’s opening match of the tournament.

Tuchel Criticises World Cup Referees Despite England’s Win Over Mexico
England manager Thomas Tuchel has criticised the standard of officiating at the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite his team’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Mexico.

Speaking after the Round of 16 match, Tuchel said the refereeing was “not good enough,” particularly regarding a penalty awarded to Mexico after a VAR review.

England had raced into a 2-0 lead through two goals from Jude Bellingham, but Mexico pulled one back before halftime through Julián Quiñones.

The game became more dramatic in the second half when England defender Jarell Quansah was sent off after VAR reviewed his challenge on Jesús Gallardo and upgraded it to a red card.

Former FIFA assistant referee Darren Cann supported the decision, saying Quansah’s studs made contact with Gallardo’s shin and that the red card was correct under the laws of the game.

England later restored their two-goal advantage through a Harry Kane penalty, but Mexico were awarded a spot-kick of their own after Kane was judged to have fouled Brian Gutiérrez. Raúl Jiménez converted the penalty to make it 3-2.

Despite Tuchel’s complaints, former England goalkeeper Joe Hart said the referee made the correct decisions throughout the match.
England eventually held on to secure victory and book a place in the quarter-finals, where they will face Norway.