Jeremy Doku has decided to return to Belgium after the birth route drew the World Cup series
Belgium striker Jeremy Doku is set to rejoin the national team at the World Cup after briefly leaving camp for the birth of his first child – a decision that unexpectedly drew criticism during the tournament.
Doku missed Belgium’s goalless draw against Iran on Sunday after initially battling a respiratory illness before being cleared to travel to London to be with his wife for the birth of their son, Praise.
Ahead of Belgium’s training session on Tuesday, defender Arthur Theate confirmed that Doku is expected back in the squad.
“Obviously we’re very happy to have him back,” Theate said. “He is an important player and an important part of the group. I hope he will help us in the next game.”
SHE CRITICIZED DOKU SEVERELY
Doku’s brief absence became an unexpected point of discussion after French commentator France Pierron criticized the idea of leaving the World Cup due to childbirth, saying on television that the fathers were “useless” during the process. The remarks sparked a backlash, with French sports daily L’Equipe later apologizing and distancing itself from the comments.
Belgium captain Youri Tielemans publicly supported his teammate and congratulated him on becoming a father.
“I think having a baby is the most beautiful thing in the world,” Tielemans said. “Being there as a dad – I have three to myself – those are memories you can’t take back.”
On Tuesday, Doku also posted a message thanking supporters.
“Shireen and Praise are doing great and my heart is full of gratitude,” Doku wrote on social media. “Welcoming my son into the world is one of the greatest blessings God has ever given me. Thank you to the team for their support, now it’s time to get back to football and represent my country on the biggest stage.”
Belgium are now turning their attention back to football. The Red Devils face New Zealand in Vancouver on Friday in a match that could decide their place in the knockout stages after drawing each of their opening two matches.
Football World Cup | FIFA World Cup Schedule | FIFA World Cup Points Table | football news
– The end
Issued by:
Kingshuk Kusari
Published on:
Jun 24, 2026 09:23 IST