Belgium's Doku to Miss World Cup Clash with Iran Due to Sickness

Belgium's World Cup campaign has suffered a setback with Jeremy Doku being sidelined for the team's second group match against Iran, scheduled to take place at SoFi Stadium, due to health issues, as confirmed by the Belgian team on Saturday.

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The absence of Manchester City's Doku will be felt as Rudi Garcia's team prepares to face Iran on Sunday, aiming to capitalize on their opening 1-1 draw with Egypt.

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A statement released by Belgium on social media revealed that Doku's illness will prevent him from participating in the upcoming match against Iran, stating "Due to illness, Jeremy Doku will not be part of the squad for our upcoming game against Iran".

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Doku's performance against Egypt was underwhelming, and he was eventually substituted out in the 86th minute, making way for Matias Fernandez-Pardo.

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The 24-year-old winger's availability for potential knock-out stage matches is also uncertain, as he is expecting the birth of his first child with his wife in early July, which could lead to his absence from the team.

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Doku is considered one of the most promising young players in the Belgian squad, which is currently in a rebuilding phase following the dissolution of their 'golden generation' that led to a group-stage exit from the 2022 World Cup.