Dutch footballer Cody Gakpo and partner announce death of unborn son
Liverpool and Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo and his partner Noa van der Bij announced the death of their unborn son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, during pregnancy on June 27, 2026. The couple, who already have a son, Samuel, had expected the baby in October. Gakpo is currently at the 2026 World Cup with the Netherlands and decided to stay with the squad after consulting his partner. The Royal Dutch Football Association expressed condolences, and fans offered widespread support.
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Cody Gakpo, grief and an image that will endure long beyond this World Cup
During the Netherlands' round of 32 match against Morocco at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo scored the opening goal and immediately sank to his knees, overcome with emotion. The poignant moment came just two days after his partner, Noa van der Bij, publicly revealed the heartbreaking stillbirth of their unborn son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Gakpo chose to remain with the squad and play despite the tragedy. After scoring, he was embraced by teammates including Virgil van Dijk, and pointed to the sky in tribute. Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman praised Gakpo's maturity and strength, noting the team's full support. The image of Gakpo surrounded by teammates became one of the tournament's most powerful and enduring moments.
Soccer - The AthleticCody Gakpo's Emotional World Cup Goal After Death of Unborn Son
During the 2026 World Cup round of 32 match between the Netherlands and Morocco, Cody Gakpo scored a goal on the counter-attack and immediately sank to his knees in grief, covering his head. He was surrounded by teammates in a powerful display of support. Just two days earlier, his partner Noa van der Bij had announced the stillbirth of their son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Gakpo chose to stay with the squad and play. After the goal, he pointed to the sky in tribute, and his partner later shared the image, writing 'So proud.' Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman and captain Virgil van Dijk praised Gakpo's maturity and strength in dealing with the tragedy.
Soccer - The AthleticCody Gakpo's Emotional Tribute After Scoring Following Unborn Son's Death at 2026 World Cup
The Athletic reports on a deeply emotional moment during the 2026 World Cup round-of-32 match between Netherlands and Morocco. Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo scored a goal and immediately sank to his knees, covering his head in grief. He was surrounded by teammates in a display of support. Two days earlier, his partner Noa van der Bij had revealed the tragic stillbirth of their son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Despite the personal tragedy, Gakpo chose to remain with the squad. After the goal, he covered his face with his shirt, pointed to the sky, and was comforted by teammates including Virgil van Dijk. Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman praised Gakpo's maturity and the support provided by the team. The article highlights the intersection of professional sport and profound personal loss.
Soccer - The AthleticGakpo Breaks Down in Tears After Scoring Against Morocco, Comforted by Teammates
Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo scored a goal for the Netherlands in a match against Morocco, but was overcome with emotion and broke down in tears afterward. The reason for his emotional reaction was the recent loss of his son. His teammates comforted him on the field. The match took place on June 30, 2026, and the story was covered by Portuguese outlet Record. Gakpo's tribute to his son was evident in his reaction, highlighting the personal tragedy behind the athletic achievement.
RecordCody Gakpo Scores for Netherlands, Breaks Down in Tears After Personal Tragedy
Dutch footballer Cody Gakpo scored the opening goal for the Netherlands against Morocco in a FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match on June 29, 2026, then collapsed to the ground and wept. He and his partner Noa van der Bij had lost their unborn baby boy, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, several months into the pregnancy the previous week. Teammates, including captain Virgil van Dijk, showed empathy, with van Dijk noting that 'football is secondary.' Morocco later equalized and won on penalty kicks. Gakpo's parents were also seen crying in the stands. The couple announced the loss on social media, asking for privacy. The match was played in Monterrey, Mexico.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Emotional Gakpo Scores Days After Loss of Unborn Child, Netherlands Eliminated
Liverpool and Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo scored an emotional goal against Morocco in the World Cup last-32 match, just days after the loss of his unborn son. Gakpo's partner, Noa van der Bij, announced on Saturday that their baby boy, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, passed away during pregnancy. Despite opening the scoring in the 72nd minute, the Netherlands were eliminated after a 1-1 draw and subsequent 3-2 penalty shootout loss. Gakpo, who started all of his country's World Cup games and scored three times, was substituted in the 113th minute and did not take part in the shootout. Teammates, including captain Virgil van Dijk, embraced Gakpo after he scored.
BBC SportNetherlands vs Morocco: Cody Gakpo Overcome with Emotion After Goal Following Loss of Unborn Child
This article reports on the emotional aftermath of the Netherlands' World Cup round of 16 match against Morocco on June 29, 2026, which the Netherlands lost 1-1 (3-2 on penalties). Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo scored the opening goal but broke down in tears immediately afterward, visibly devastated. The article reveals that Gakpo had experienced a personal tragedy days earlier: his partner Noa van der Bij suffered a miscarriage at five months, losing their unborn son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Despite the loss, Gakpo chose to remain with the national team per the Dutch Federation's statement. Coach Ronald Koeman started him, and Gakpo played until extra time before being substituted. Following the penalty shootout elimination, Gakpo was expected to return home to grieve with his family.
Home Football - actualitésCody Gakpo's Emotional Goal for Netherlands After Family Tragedy
During a World Cup match between the Netherlands and Morocco, Dutch forward Cody Gakpo scored a goal and was overcome with emotion, lying on the ground in tears and hiding his face with his jersey. The Liverpool player had learned of the death of his unborn child two days earlier, a personal tragedy that occurred during his partner's pregnancy. Despite the devastating news, Gakpo chose to remain with the national team for the World Cup. After returning to his side of the pitch, he pointed to the sky with his fingers, clearly honoring the child he lost before birth. His teammates surrounded him in support during the emotional moment.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuCody Gakpo breaks down in tears after scoring World Cup goal following death of child
Dutch footballer Cody Gakpo scored the opening goal for the Netherlands against Morocco in a 2026 World Cup Round of 32 match, held in Monterrey, Mexico. Gakpo broke down in tears during his celebration, days after his girlfriend Noa van der Bij announced the couple had suffered a miscarriage, losing their unborn second son. Despite the personal tragedy, Gakpo chose to remain with the national team to compete. The article, from Mirror Football, highlights the emotional weight of the moment and Gakpo’s resilience.
Mirror - FootballCody Gakpo scores emotional goal after losing unborn son ahead of World Cup match
Dutch soccer star Cody Gakpo and his wife Noa van der Bij revealed the heartbreaking loss of their unborn son before the Netherlands faced Morocco in the 2026 World Cup. Despite the tragedy, the 27-year-old Liverpool forward chose to remain with the squad in Monterrey, Mexico, rather than return home. Gakpo played in the match and scored an emotional goal, visibly moved afterward. Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk and head coach Ronald Koeman praised Gakpo's determination and maturity, noting he was offered the option to step away but insisted on staying. The football community has rallied in support of the family's privacy during this difficult time.
Yardbarker: SoccerGakpo Breaks Down in Tears After Scoring, Dedicates Goal to His Child Lost During Pregnancy
During the World Cup round of 16 match between the Netherlands and Morocco, Dutch forward Cody Gakpo scored a goal, giving the Netherlands a 1-0 lead. Instead of celebrating, Gakpo knelt on the pitch and wept, hiding his face under his jersey as teammates surrounded him to offer privacy and comfort. The emotional reaction followed a personal tragedy: a few days earlier, Gakpo and his girlfriend lost their second child during pregnancy. Despite the devastating blow, Gakpo chose to remain with the national team and participate in the World Cup. The report includes a link to his girlfriend's social media announcement. The article originates from Hupu, a Chinese sports community, and generated notable reader replies expressing condolences and support.
虎扑 - 足球Cody Gakpo's wife Noa van der Bij shares tragic loss of unborn baby boy Elijah Raphael Gakpo
Liverpool and Netherlands footballer Cody Gakpo and his wife Noa van der Bij have announced the tragic death of their unborn baby boy, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, during pregnancy. Van der Bij shared a heartbreaking social media post with a photo of their hands over a blanket and knitted hat, expressing their broken hearts. She revealed they named their son Elijah Raphael Gakpo and shared how they visited a church to light a candle. Afterward, while at a playground with their son Samuel, they encountered another boy named Elijah, which she described as a beautiful sign from God. Gakpo requested privacy for the family as they grieve. The tragedy occurred while Gakpo is playing for the Netherlands at the 2026 FIFA World Cup; he is expected to continue with the squad for their upcoming match against Morocco.
Mirror - FootballCody Gakpo Declares World Cup Availability After Partner's Miscarriage
Liverpool and Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo has made himself available to play in the World Cup match against Morocco, just days after his partner Noa van der Bij announced their baby boy, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, had passed away during pregnancy. Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk and coach Ronald Koeman publicly supported Gakpo, with Koeman revealing the squad was prepared to grant compassionate leave. However, Gakpo assessed the situation himself and chose to remain with the team. The match is scheduled for Tuesday at Estadio Monterrey. The news has drawn widespread support from fans and fellow players.
Mirror - Football2026 World Cup, Netherlands: Despite Personal Tragedy, Cody Gakpo Remains with Oranje
Cody Gakpo, the Liverpool striker playing for the Netherlands in the 2026 World Cup, is facing a devastating personal loss. His partner, Noa van der Bij, who was five months pregnant, has lost their unborn child. The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) confirmed the news and expressed support for the player, requesting privacy. Despite this tragedy, Gakpo has decided to remain with the Oranje squad after discussions with his partner, head coach Ronald Koeman, and his staff. He had previously scored a brace against Sweden in the group stage and is considered a key player ahead of the round of 32 match against Morocco.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertNetherlands Star Cody Gakpo Faces Personal Tragedy: Baby Dies During Pregnancy
Cody Gakpo, the 27-year-old Liverpool forward and Netherlands national team star, is coping with a devastating personal loss during the ongoing World Cup in North America. His girlfriend, Noa van der Bij, announced on Instagram that their unborn son, who was to be named Elijah Raphael Gakpo, died during pregnancy. The couple, who already have a two-year-old son named Samuel, had announced the pregnancy on May 30. Despite the tragedy, Gakpo remains with the Dutch squad. The KNVB (Dutch football association) expressed condolences and stated it was supporting the family privately. Noa and Samuel are currently in North America for the World Cup. The couple found solace in a church visit and an encounter with a boy named Elijah, which Noa described as a sign. Gakpo has asked for privacy. He recently scored two goals and assisted another in the Netherlands' group stage victory; the team faces Morocco in the Round of 32.
Nachrichten - WELTLiverpool Sends Condolences to Cody Gakpo After Child's Death During Pregnancy
On June 27, Cody Gakpo's girlfriend, Noa van der Bij, confirmed via social media that their child tragically passed away during pregnancy. In response, Liverpool Football Club's official social media account issued a public message of condolence, stating: 'We send love, prayers, and support to you and your family ❤️🧡.' The news was reported by Hupu, a Chinese sports media outlet, and includes a related reading link to Gakpo's girlfriend's announcement. The article reflects the club's support for the player during a personal tragedy.
虎扑 - 足球2026 World Cup: Netherlands Striker Cody Gakpo Requests Privacy After Losing Unborn Child
Netherlands and Liverpool striker Cody Gakpo has publicly called for respect for his privacy following the tragic death of his unborn child. Gakpo's partner, Noa van der Bij, announced on Instagram that their son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, passed away during pregnancy. The couple shared a photo of hands over a blanket with a woolen hat and described the loss as 'devastating news.' In a separate message, Gakpo, who is currently playing in the 2026 World Cup with the Netherlands, stated it is 'an incredibly difficult time for our family' and asked that their 'privacy and space be respected.' The 27-year-old forward has started all three of the Netherlands' group-stage matches, scoring two goals. His team, which finished top of its group, is scheduled to face Morocco in the round of 32 on Monday in Monterrey, Mexico.
Home Football - actualitésCody Gakpo Announces Death of Expected Baby During World Cup
Netherlands and Liverpool striker Cody Gakpo announced the tragic death of his unborn baby during the 2026 World Cup. His partner, Van der Bij, shared on social media that their son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, passed away during pregnancy. Gakpo requested privacy, calling it an incredibly difficult time for his family. The news comes as the Netherlands advanced from Group F with 7 points, and Gakpo, who scored a brace against Sweden, is a key player. The Dutch team is set to face Morocco in the round of 32. The Barcelona-based publication Mundo Deportivo reported the story on June 27, 2026.
FútbolCody Gakpo Mourns Loss of Unborn Child Before World Cup Match Against Morocco
Two days before the 2026 World Cup round of 32 match between the Netherlands and Morocco, Dutch striker Cody Gakpo and his partner Noa van der Bij announced on Instagram the loss of their unborn son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, during pregnancy. The Liverpool forward, who has made an excellent start to the tournament with two goals and one assist in three matches, is expected to be available for the match in Monterrey. Van der Bij, who is accompanying Gakpo in the United States during the World Cup, shared a second message about finding solace in a church visit and a sign from God involving another child named Elijah. The couple had recently announced they were expecting another child.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuNetherlands Star Cody Gakpo and Partner Suffer Stillbirth During World Cup
Terrible news for Netherlands and Liverpool star Cody Gakpo (27) during the ongoing 2026 World Cup. His girlfriend, Noa van der Bij, announced on Instagram that the couple's baby died during pregnancy. The couple already has a two-year-old son, Samuel. The deceased boy was to be named Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Despite the loss, Gakpo remains with the Dutch national team, which is supporting the family privately. The Dutch association (KNVB) expressed condolences. Gakpo, who scored two goals and an assist in the group stage, is preparing for the Round of 32 match against Morocco. The couple shared a poignant story of receiving a 'sign' after meeting a boy named Elijah at a playground. Gakpo has requested privacy during this difficult time.
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