Cody Gakpo was visibly moved, shedding tears after finding the net for the Netherlands just days after his partner, Noa van der Bij, shared the heartbreaking news of their unborn son’s death. The 27-year-old Liverpool forward struck in the 72nd minute during the last-32 match against Morocco, a game that ultimately ended in a 3-2 penalty shootout defeat for the Dutch following a 1-1 deadlock.
Despite the profound personal loss, Gakpo chose to stay with his national team for the tournament. Following his goal, he knelt on the pitch, where he was immediately comforted by his teammates. Captain Virgil van Dijk was among those who offered support, embracing the striker as they returned to their half. The couple had announced on Saturday that their baby boy, whom they named Elijah Raphael Gakpo, had passed away during the pregnancy.
Gakpo, who played in every match for his country during this World Cup and accumulated three goals throughout the competition, was replaced in the 113th minute against Morocco and did not participate in the final shootout. Issa Diop had scored an equalizer in stoppage time to force the match into extra time, setting the stage for Morocco’s eventual victory.
