World Cup
Jérémy Doku welcomes son Praise as Belgium readies for Iran
Manchester City winger Jérémy Doku welcomed a newborn son named Praise on the eve of Belgium's World Cup encounter with Iran. The Red Devils were preparing for the group-stage duel when Doku received the family news. He was sidelined for the Iran match due to a respiratory infection, allowing him to travel to London.
Belgium, known as the Rode Duivel, were set to face Iran in a World Cup qualifier. The match was part of the tournament's group stage schedule.
Team doctor Brahim Hacene told Het , "Doku ontving voor de wedstrijd tegen Iran het bericht dat de geboorte eraan zat te komen". Hacene confirmed the timing of the announcement relative to the upcoming fixture.
A day before the Iran game, medical staff ruled Doku unavailable because of the infection. This decision opened the possibility for him to join his wife temporarily in London.
"In overleg met de medische staf van de Rode Duivels werd beslist om hem de kans te geven zich tijdelijk bij zijn vrouw in Londen te voegen", Hacene explained. The travel was coordinated with the national team's medical team.
"Aangezien hij de aangepaste medicatie al enkele dagen toegediend kreeg, kon hij zonder medisch risico vliegen," Hacene added, noting that Doku was cleared for the flight. Team doctor Brecht De Coninck accompanied him throughout the journey.
Doku is expected back in Seattle on Tuesday evening, where Belgium will continue preparations for the crucial group match against New Zealand. The squad aims to build momentum ahead of the upcoming fixture.