Jeremy Doku became a father for the first time on June 23, welcoming a baby boy named Praise with his wife Shireen.
What happened?
Doku left the national side's FIFA World Cup camp in the USA to travel to London for the birth of his son.
The Belgian Football Association confirmed the news, stating that Doku received the message before the match against Iran that the birth was imminent.
Why it matters for Jeremy Doku
The Manchester City winger was given permission to leave the national camp to be present with his wife for the birth.
Doku's availability was already in question against Iran due to a respiratory infection.
What comes next?
Doku is expected to rejoin the team in Seattle on Tuesday ahead of a must-win game against New Zealand on Friday.
The team doctor, Brahim Hacene, said that Doku was healthy enough for a cross-Atlantic flight to support his partner during labor.
Everything went well, and mother, father, and son are doing excellent, according to Hacene.
Belgium's campaign has been frustrating for fans so far, with draws against Egypt and Iran.
The news of Doku leaving the camp met criticism from some quarters, with a TV presenter facing social media backlash for suggesting that fathers are useless during childbirth.
The broadcaster had to issue a public apology and suspend the presenter.
Doku's return to the team will be crucial for Belgium's chances in the FIFA World Cup.
The must-win game against New Zealand on Friday will be a tough test for the team.
Doku's experience and skills will be essential for Belgium's success in the tournament.
The Belgian Football Association has supported Doku's decision to leave the camp for the birth of his son.
The team's coach, Rudi Garcia, will be hoping that Doku's return will boost the team's morale and performance.
Doku's baby boy, Praise, was born on June 23, and the family is doing well.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has been an exciting tournament so far, with many surprises and upsets.
Belgium will be looking to improve their performance and make it to the next round.
Doku's return to the team will be a welcome boost for the fans and the players.
The team's next game against New Zealand will be a challenging one, but with Doku's return, they will be hoping to get a win.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is being held in the USA, and the tournament has been a huge success so far.
The fans have been enjoying the exciting matches and the skills of the players.
Doku's experience in the tournament will be essential for Belgium's success.
The team's performance has been improving with each game, and they will be looking to make it to the next round.
The must-win game against New Zealand on Friday will be a tough test for the team, but with Doku's return, they will be hoping to get a win.