A blow to the Belgian national team: Jérémy Doku will miss the match against Iran in the 2026 World Cup
[92053] A blow to the Belgian national team: Jérémy Doku will miss the match against Iran in the 2026 World Cup
Belgian national team star, Jérémy Doku, is suffering from respiratory problems and will not play against Iran. In Belgium, they hope to get him fit for the third match of the tournament.
A blow to Belgium: Jérémy Doku out of the squad against Iran
Ahead of the critical encounter in the 2026 World Cup, it has become known that the Belgium national team will have to manage without its star, Jérémy Doku. According to reports in Iranian sports channels Varzesh3 and SNN.ir, the player is suffering from respiratory problems that prevent him from taking part in the upcoming match against Iran.
Vincent Mannaert, the sporting director of the Belgian national team, confirmed the details and stated that the decision was made to allow the player an extended rest: "It is better to let him rest now and focus on preparing him for the final group stage match against New Zealand".
In a report by Iran International, a channel known for its critical stance toward the regime in Iran, it was noted that this is a direct continuation of health issues Doku has suffered from in recent weeks. According to the report, the player arrived at the training camp suffering from a severe cold, and despite a good performance in the second half against Egypt, his respiratory condition worsened.
In the local sports media in Iran, such as Tabriz Khabarlary, they referred to the absence as "good news" for coach Amir Ghalenoei. Commentators estimate that Doku's absence will lead to a tactical change in the Belgian lineup, with Leandro Trossard expected to take his place on the left wing.