Belgium's Jeremy Doku has revealed that he hopes to be present for the birth of his first child, even if it coincides with the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026. The 24-year-old forward, a key component of Belgium's attack, is preparing to begin his World Cup campaign against Egypt in Seattle on Monday.
According to Reuters, Belgian media have reported that contingency plans are being arranged to allow Doku to leave the United States and return home in time for the delivery if necessary. Doku informed reporters that his wife Shireen is due in the second week of July, when the tournament will have reached the quarterfinal stage. If Belgium are still competing, he wants to be at the birth.
“It depends on when it happens, but it’s my first child, so I would definitely want to be there,” he said. “If you ask me what I want, my answer is that nobody wants to miss the birth of their first child. But I also know that football involves many other considerations. I know the federation supports its players and understands their situations. We’ll see what we can do,” he added.
When asked whether Belgium can win the World Cup for the first time, Doku stated: “Everyone will say that we want to win this tournament, and I’m not going to be different. Everybody has that desire – to be the Belgium we used to show, and see how far we go. We know we’re not the favourites, but maybe that will work in our favour. We want to leave without any regrets – so that if we leave, we’ve given everything we have. Whatever is in my power, I’ll do it.”
