Belgium winger Jérémy Doku has been ruled out of Sunday's World Cup match against Iran due to illness, the Red Devils announced on Saturday. The Manchester City player will not be available for the Group C fixture at SoFi Stadium in the Los Angeles area.
Doku's absence a blow for Belgium
The speedy 24-year-old started Belgium's World Cup opener against Egypt last Monday, playing until the 86th minute of a 1-1 draw. According to the team, Doku left a training session early during the week before the opening match due to breathing issues. His illness has now forced him to miss the crucial second group game.
Belgium, ranked 10th in FIFA's world rankings, need a strong result against Iran to stay on track to win their group after the surprising draw with Egypt. The Red Devils finish group-stage play against New Zealand on Friday.
Doku's personal situation
Doku has been in the spotlight in recent days after telling reporters that he planned to leave the team if necessary for the birth of his first child during the World Cup. His wife is due in early July, which would coincide with the knockout stages.
If Belgium win their group and their first knockout-round match, they would face co-host United States on July 6 in the round of 16, provided the Americans also win their first knockout-round match against a third-place team.
