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Østigård celebrates birth via video link; Doku discusses leaving squad

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 20, 2026, 8:06 PM

Last updated Jun 20, 2026

Østigård celebrates birth via video link; Doku discusses leaving squad

Summary

Norway's Leo Østigård followed the birth of his first child via video link while the World Cup is underway. Meanwhile, Belgium's Jérémy Doku is considering leaving the squad to support his wife for their upcoming childbirth, potentially missing a crucial match. Østigård's partner, Aurora Eidmann, gave birth on Friday, and he has been in contact with teammate Erling Haaland for parenting advice. The situation has drawn mixed reactions from fans and analysts regarding family commitments during the tournament. The implications of Doku's decision could affect Belgium's performance in key matches.

Source Links

The Guardian Sport

By the Numbers

•Østigård welcomed his son while at the World Cup.
•Doku might leave the Belgium squad for family reasons.
•The World Cup is ongoing with crucial matches approaching.
•Østigård received parenting tips from Erling Haaland.

Latest Updates

8:06 PMThe Guardian Sport — World Cup baby joy for Norway’s Østigård while Doku plans to fly home for birth

What they're saying

"
Belgian’s decision sparked criticism in some quarters Norwegian defender followed son’s birth on video link Family life is intruding on the World Cup for some players in the shape of new arrivals, with Norway’s Leo Østigård following the birth of his first child by video link and Jérémy Doku contemplating leaving the Belgium squad to be with his wife when she gives birth, potentially ⁠missing a key match. Østigård, who has been receiving parenting tips from his teammate ⁠Erling Haaland, provided long-distance support to his partner, Aurora Eidmann, as she gave birth to their ⁠son on Friday. Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby Guardian sport and Reuters

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