Belgian striker Romelu Doku returns to World Cup camp after son’s birth

Romelu Doku left Belgium’s World Cup camp in Qatar to attend the birth of his first child, Prajz, in London. The Belgian Football Association granted him leave, and Doku was present for the delivery before re‑joining the squad for a light training session.

He missed the Group G match against Iran but returned in time for the crucial final group fixture against New Zealand, where Belgium must win to stay in contention for the knockout stage. Coach Rudi Garsija stressed that the team remains focused despite the brief absence.

Doku’s situation highlights the balance between professional duties and family responsibilities during the tournament, with the Belgian side aiming to improve on their 2022 performance.