Jeremy Doku was not on the pitch when Belgium laboured to a 0-0 draw against Iran at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, a result that leaves the Red Devils with two points from two matches in Group G. The Manchester City forward had been ruled out hours earlier with a severe respiratory infection, the Belgian federation confirmed, and not because of the debate that had engulfed his World Cup. Close associates of the player, in briefings to media in Iran, rejected any suggestion the birth was behind his absence, expressing frustration at the rumours that had swirled since his public remarks.

The debate had been ignited by Doku’s own words. In the camp’s quieter moments, he told reporters that his wife, Shireen, was due to give birth to their first child in the second week of July—coinciding with the quarter-finals. “Nobody wants to miss the birth of their first child,” the 24-year-old said, adding the federation understood personal situations. His candour provoked a visceral response from France Pierron, a presenter on the L’Équipe channel, who called childbirth “a disgusting moment” and fathers “completely useless” during delivery, insisting a World Cup appearance was a rarer privilege.

The backlash was swift and transcontinental. In England, Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins publicly rebuked Pierron’s characterisation, calling birth “a blessing” and insisting family commitments should outweigh football. Across the Channel, ex-Olympic boxing champion Brahim Asloum said flatly that “a baby is your entire life. A World Cup is over when it is over.” Pierron, facing intense criticism, issued an apology, explaining her remarks were a personal opinion in a heated studio exchange and not intended to diminish paternal roles. Italian commentariat viewed the affair as a sign of shifting expectations around fatherhood in elite sport, though the controversy rested on a single incendiary soundbite.

Belgium’s immediate concern, however, is the pitch. Doku had started the opening 1-1 draw with Egypt, playing 86 minutes. His absence against Iran was acute: already reduced to ten men after Nathan Ngoy’s red card, they lacked the spark to break down a resolute defence. Rudi Garcia’s side now face New Zealand in the final group match needing a win to reach the knockout stage.