Belgian star Doku's World Cup absence for childbirth sparks fierce debate and media criticism

Belgian national team player Jeremy Doku, a key figure known for his speed and penetration, is considering leaving the team's World Cup camp to be present for the birth of his child. This potential absence has ignited a significant debate within Belgium, highlighting a clash between prioritizing family and fulfilling national team duties during a major tournament.

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Hundreds of footballers would kill to be in your place and have the chance to play in the World Cup, and you're going to leave it all to be at a birth? Excuse me, but that's a terrible moment in which the father is useless anyway, just a statistic.

While some believe family should come first, others argue that the World Cup is an unparalleled opportunity that should not be abandoned for a birth. The controversy intensified following a strong reaction from France Pierron, a host of the show 'L'Équipe de choc.' Pierron controversially stated that fathers are "useless" during childbirth and that Doku would be leaving an irreplaceable opportunity for a replaceable event.

Pierron's remarks drew immediate criticism, with former boxer Brahim Asloum questioning her statement and emphasizing the father's supportive role. Pierron, however, doubled down, suggesting the midwife knows her job and that Doku's travel and emotional state would disrupt his World Cup rhythm, adding that "the baby will always be there," but the World Cup opportunity would not.

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How do you mean useless? Who provides support then?

Doku and his wife Shireen are expecting a boy, with the due date falling between the quarterfinals (July 7) and semifinals (July 14-15). If Belgium advances, Doku would likely miss both matches. He acknowledged the desire to be with his wife but also the responsibility towards the national team, facing a challenging decision involving an approximately 8,000-kilometer round trip with a 10-hour flight each way.

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The midwife knows her job? And you're going to lose 10 hours traveling, get tired, experience emotional shock, and completely fall out of the World Cup rhythm. The baby will always be there, but the opportunity to play in the World Cup will not.