Jeremy Doku (foto: Getty Images)
Jérémy Doku could become a father during the World Cup knockout stage, creating a difficult choice between one of football's biggest tournaments and a once-in-a-lifetime family moment.
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For most footballers, the World Cup is the biggest event of their professional lives. For Jérémy Doku, the 2026 tournament could coincide with something even bigger.
The Belgian international is expecting his first child during the World Cup, with the birth reportedly due during the knockout stages. If the timing overlaps with one of Belgium's decisive matches, Doku may face an emotional decision few players ever have to make.
The 24-year-old winger admitted he already knows where his heart is pulling him.
"I would like to be there. Of course, there is also football here," Doku said when asked about the possibility.
It is a situation that has quickly become one of the most human stories of the tournament.
On the pitch, Doku is one of Belgium's most important players. His pace, dribbling ability and unpredictability make him a key weapon in coach Rudi Garcia's attacking plans. Alongside experienced stars such as Kevin De Bruyne and Thibaut Courtois, he forms part of the backbone of a Belgian team hoping to make a deep run in North America.
Off the pitch, however, football suddenly becomes secondary.
Belgian media report that the federation has already begun preparing for every possible scenario. Officials are reportedly maintaining close contact with the hospital where Doku's partner is expected to give birth, while logistical plans have also been discussed in case the player needs to travel back to Europe at short notice.
A private flight remains one of the options being considered if circumstances require immediate travel.
The hope inside the Belgian camp is that the timing will allow Doku to attend the birth and quickly return without missing a match. If the dates fall differently, the situation becomes far more complicated.
A birth coinciding with a round-of-16 match, quarter-final or even a semi-final would force a choice between national duty and one of the most important moments in his personal life.
Football history has seen similar situations before. Some players have chosen to stay with their national teams or clubs, while others have immediately travelled home to be with their families. There is rarely a right or wrong answer.
For Doku, the challenge is especially unique because first-time fatherhood is an experience that cannot be repeated.
Belgium's coaching staff appears fully supportive of whatever decision becomes necessary. The federation's preparations suggest they understand the importance of the moment and want to give the winger every opportunity to be present for both his family and his country.
As Belgium continues their World Cup journey, Doku's story serves as a reminder that even during football's biggest spectacle, life does not stop.
Some matches can be replayed in highlights forever. The birth of your first child happens only once.