Doku Misses Belgium’s World Cup Match Against Iran Due to Illness

Belgium’s winger Jeremy Doku will miss the second group‑stage match of the World Cup against Iran at SoFi Stadium because of illness, the national team announced on Saturday.

Manager Rudi Garcia’s side are set to face Iran on Sunday, hoping to improve on a 1‑1 draw with Egypt, but will do so without the Manchester City forward.

“Due to illness, Jeremy Doku will not be part of the squad for our upcoming game against Iran,” Belgium posted on social media.

Doku appeared in the opening match against Egypt but was unable to influence the game and was replaced by Matias Fernandez‑Pardo in the 86th minute.

The 24‑year‑old may also be absent from a knockout‑stage fixture, as his wife is scheduled to give birth to their first child in the second week of July.

Doku is regarded as one of the brightest young talents in the Belgian squad, which is working to rebuild after the collapse of its “golden generation” and a group‑stage exit in the 2022 World Cup.

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