Jérémy Doku ruled out for Belgium's World Cup match vs Iran

Manchester City winger Jérémy Doku will miss Belgium's World Cup group match against Iran on Sunday after being ruled out with illness, the Red Devils announced on Saturday at SoFi Stadium in the Los Angeles area. The decision comes ahead of the final group fixture. Doku started Belgium's World Cup opener on Monday and remained on the pitch until the 86th minute of the 1‑1 draw with Egypt. His involvement in the opening match demonstrated his role in the team's attacking options. During the week before the opening game, Doku left a training session early because of breathing issues. The respiratory problem was reported as the reason for his early departure. Doku told reporters he was prepared to leave the squad if necessary for the birth of his first child. His wife is due in early July, coinciding with the tournament's knockout stage.

Iran faces Belgium with tactical shift and defensive concerns

Belgium currently sits tenth in the FIFA world rankings and requires a positive result against Iran to stay on track for the group top spot after the draw with Egypt. The team views the Iran match as crucial for its qualification ambitions. The Red Devils conclude the group stage with a match against New Zealand on Friday. That fixture will determine whether Belgium can secure the group winner's position.

Rode Duivels missen Doku for Iran clash as Lukaku starts

If Belgium win their group and their first knockout‑round match, they would meet co‑host United States on 6 July in the round of 16, provided the Americans also win their opening knockout game against a third‑place opponent. The potential encounter adds further incentive for a strong group performance. Earlier in his international career, Doku featured in the Euro 2024 group F qualifying match between Belgium and Estonia at the A. Le Coq Arena in Tallinn on 20 June 2023. The qualifier highlighted his speed and versatility on the wing.