World Cup 2026: Cody Gakpo scores days after loss of unborn son

Cody Gakpo broke down in tears as he scored for the Netherlands just days after the loss of his unborn son.

The 27-year-old Liverpool striker scored the first goal in the Netherlands’ last 32 draw against Morocco and lost 3-2 on penalties after drawing 1-1 after extra time.

His partner, model Noa van der Bij, announced the news on Saturday. The couple was expecting a second child, with the baby due in October, but Gakpo chose to stay with the team.

As Gakpo knelt down after scoring, he was swarmed by his teammates and players surrounded him to provide support.

Netherlands and Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk embraced Gakpo as the players returned to their own half.

On Saturday, Van der Bij posted a photo on social media of the couple holding hands over a blanket and knitted hat.

“With our little hearts, we share the sad news of our son’s death during pregnancy,” she wrote.

“Thank you for your love and support. Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Forever loved. Forever our son.”

Gakpo started all of his country’s matches at the World Cup, scoring three goals in total, but was substituted in the 113th minute against Morocco and did not take part in the penalty shoot-out.

IIssa Diop had equalized in stoppage time to force extra time before the North Africans won the penalty shoot-out.