Overview
- Belgian football authorities announced Monday that Doku and his partner Shireen have welcomed a baby boy named Praise and that all three are doing well.
- The federation said team doctors reviewed his condition and allowed a temporary departure so Doku could travel by plane to London when the birth was imminent.
- Doku had already been ruled out of Belgium’s match with Iran because of a respiratory illness and was managed conservatively by coach Rudi Garcia and the medical staff.
- France Pierron, a presenter on L’Equipe, drew sharp criticism after calling fathers “useless” during childbirth, later apologised, and the broadcaster publicly distanced itself and reportedly stood her down.
- The episode has focused attention on how federations balance family rights, player health and tournament logistics and may prompt clearer protocols for temporary player leave in future competitions.