Doku should not be criticised for leaving World Cup for child's birth

Doku should not be criticised for leaving World Cup for child's birth addresses reactions to Jeremy Doku’s plan to leave Belgium’s World Cup camp to be present for the birth of his first child. The Manchester City forward said it is his first child and he “definitely” wants to attend the birth, with his wife Shireen due in the second week of July. The article frames expectations for Belgium’s quarter-final timeline as uncertain after a Sunday draw with Iran. Doku also said the federation supports players and that he and the staff will “see what we can do.” It discusses criticism in parts of Western Europe, including French TV presenter France Pierron’s view that the father’s role is minimal, followed by her later apology about not intending to reduce fathers’ place. The piece contrasts football attitudes with examples of authorized absences during Premier League and international competition.