Red Flames Midfielder Justine Vanhaevermaet Announces First Pregnancy

Justine Vanhaevermaet, a veteran presence in the heart of the Belgian midfield, has announced she is expecting her first child. The 33-year-old Red Flame shared the news via social media, marking a significant personal milestone for the professional footballer.

Sharing the announcement on Instagram, Vanhaevermaet wrote, “Binnenkort zijn we met drie” (Soon we will be three). The baby is expected to arrive in September 2026.

Vanhaevermaet is expecting the child with her partner, Thomas De Jonghe, who previously served as a kinesiologist for Club Brugge.

Impact on National Team Availability

The timing of the pregnancy coincides with a critical period for the Belgian national team. Vanhaevermaet is absent from the current squad selection for the upcoming two-match series against Scotland. These fixtures are part of the qualification process for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.

For the Red Flames, the absence of Vanhaevermaet means losing a seasoned leader. With 82 caps to her name, she has long been regarded as a “rock” for the national side. Her experience is highlighted by her appearances in two European Championships, including a notable goal scored during a challenging 6-2 defeat against Spain, who eventually reached the tournament final.

A Career Defined by European Experience

Vanhaevermaet’s journey to the top of the women’s game has spanned several of Europe’s most competitive leagues. Her career began in Belgium with Sinaai Girls, followed by stints at RSC Anderlecht and Lierse SK in the joint Belgian-Dutch BeNe League.

Seeking further growth, she moved abroad, playing for SC Sand in Germany before heading to Norway. In Norway, she represented Røa IL and LSK Kvinner (Lillestrøm Kvinner FK). During her time with LSK Kvinner, she helped the team qualify for the round of 16 in the 2020–21 UEFA Champions League, contributing a goal in a 2-0 victory over FC Minsk.

Her career eventually led her to England, where she played for Reading on a two-year contract starting in August 2021, and later joined Everton in August 2023. Since last summer, the midfielder has been playing for Crystal Palace, an English club currently competing in the second division.

Career Path Summary

Looking Ahead

Whereas her immediate focus shifts toward her family and the arrival of her first child in September, Vanhaevermaet leaves a lasting legacy with the Red Flames. Her transition from the Belgian domestic league to the heights of the Champions League and the English game serves as a blueprint for emerging Belgian talent.

The Red Flames will now look to navigate their World Cup qualifying matches against Scotland without their veteran midfielder. Official updates regarding Vanhaevermaet’s future return to professional play have not been disclosed.

Do you have a favorite memory of Justine’s career with the Red Flames? Share your thoughts and congratulations in the comments below.