Belgium winger Jeremie Doku featured 86 minutes in the 1-1 Group G draw with Egypt but missed the goalless stalemate against Iran. The Belgian FA said he travelled to London with medical clearance to be present for the birth of his son, Praise, in early July. Doku will rejoin the squad in Seattle ahead of the New Zealand match.

The incident has reignited debate over paternity leave in men’s football. FIFA mandates a minimum 14‑week paid maternity leave for women but offers no specific provision for fathers, leaving players to balance club duties with family milestones. The PFA stressed that “fundamental family moments” must not be sacrificed, urging federations to support athletes as people, not just performers. Clubs risk sanctions for non‑compliance.

Veterans such as Fabian Delph and David Silva have previously left World Cup camps for newborns, while others like Norway’s Leo Østigård watched deliveries via FaceTime from tournament hotels. Managers also juggle births, with one top‑flight coach directing from the bench before rushing to his wife’s labour. Doku’s decision underscores a growing call for clear paternity policies in elite sport.