Jeremy Doku's World Cup absence for son's birth sparks controversy

Belgian forward Jeremy Doku caused a stir within the national team during the World Cup group stage when he left the squad to be present for the birth of his child. After starting in Belgium's opening match against Egypt, Doku was absent for the team's draw with Iran.

The Belgian FA initially stated that Doku's departure was due to a respiratory illness. However, this explanation quickly became a point of contention, especially after BBC Sport reported that the 24-year-old player had received special permission to travel for the birth of his son in London.

The discrepancy in explanations led to a media scandal. French journalist France Pierron of L'Équipe ignited further controversy with her strong remarks, describing the father's role in childbirth as "disgusting" and deeming his presence "useless." Pierron stated, "There are hundreds of footballers who would kill to be in your place (...) and you are going to leave everything to attend the birth of your child, which is a disgusting moment, sorry, in which the father is useless."

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There are hundreds of footballers who would kill to be in your place (...) and you are going to leave everything to attend the birth of your child, which is a disgusting moment, sorry, in which the father is useless.