Jeremy Doku balances newborn joy with Belgium's World Cup push

Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku featured for Belgium against New Zealand, entering the match at kickoff and staying on the pitch for 56 minutes before being substituted, as the Red Devils secured a win that sent them through to the next round. Doku suffered a respiratory infection ahead of Belgium's opening match against Egypt. The illness forced him to miss the subsequent fixture against Iran. After recovering, Doku travelled to London to attend the birth of his first child. The newborn arrival meant he returned to the national squad with limited training time.

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Coach Rudi Garcia was expected to omit Doku from the starting eleven because of his recent disruptions. Nevertheless, the Manchester City winger started the game, remained on the pitch for 56 minutes and did not deliver his most inspired display. Doku said he will work in the coming hours to regain his best level. He aims to be fully ready for Belgium's first decisive match scheduled for Wednesday. In his RTBF interview Doku declared, “I am happy with the victory and having been able to get back on the field. It was a very good day for me.” He added, “Yes, it’s much better now; after missing several trainings and the last match, I am satisfied with my performance and that I could help the team.” Reflecting on the week, Doku said, “It was a week full of things. My child was born and I am very happy to have been able to attend that.” He concluded, “I am also happy to be back here to play football, to represent my country, and to see us win and qualify for the next round,” while noting he chose not to discuss his emotions in detail.