Boulahrouz Hit By Family Tragedy

Tragedy has struck the Dutch defender Khalid Boulahrouz with the death of his daughter.
There had been intense speculation yesterday when Khalid Boulahrouz left the Dutch training camp with a police escort. And it has now been revealed that his wife, Sabia, gave birth prematurely to a baby daughter, Anissa, who has not survived. The body of the baby was flown to El Hoceima in Northern Morocco, the home town of Boulahrouz's wife, for an immediate funeral in following with Islamic customs.

The Dutch Euro 2008 squad confirmed the tragic news today, adding that at this stage it is not clear if or when the player will be returning to the Dutch camp. That means, of course, that he could be unavailable for the Netherlands' quarter-final against Russia on Saturday - and for subsequent matches should Holland progress.

"Players and staff of the Dutch team are upset by the death of Anissa, the daughter of Khalid Boulahrouz and his wife Sabia, who was born prematurely," read a statement.

Boulahrouz appeared in each of Holland’s three group games at Eiro 2008, all of which ended in victory

really really sad news...

very sad indeed

my condolances to the whole family from Boulahrouz and his wife Sabia..

BOULAHOUZ, THE DUTCH NATION SUPPORTS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!!

This is terrible news. Poor guy.
At least he will be able to get home to his wife and help her through it. Football at a time like this is secondary.

awww, thats so awful

Sad news for Boula and his wife.My heart goes out to them.Van Persie and De Jong were with him in the hospital for a big part of the time,and also Van Nistelrooy and Van Der Sar were there to support him and his wife.

Boula has already said he will remain with the squad and still play for what I understand.The players in the squad are very close to eachother right now and this might help him with recovery somewhat.

Very sad news. The condolances of my family and I to Boula and his family. These things remind us that the number one things in life are health and love. The rest is all extra.

RIP

Boulahrouz has also returned to training on today (Thursday). So he will be available for their next match.

Yeah, it brings all the rivalry and fighting into perspective at times like this. All the best to his family and to Khalid.

Poor bloke. He has been actually really solid in the tournament so far for the Dutch, putting in some really strong tackles in that right back position.

Brave thing for him to do remaining with Holland. Truly brave

Very sad news

I heard the fans are preparing some actions for the match against Russia. Could get quite emotional

wher did you hear this?

Someone told me it was in the newspaper. Telegraaf I believe.

From what i've heard is that they start shouting his name and then sing you'll never walk alone

sweet...but why not a banner. i always like that.