Cody Gakpo was emotional after scoring for the Netherlands against Morocco at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Cody Gakpo was emotional after scoring for the Netherlands against Morocco at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Forward Cody Gakpo was visibly emotional after scoring for the Netherlands against Morocco in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup (June 29).
In May, the 27-year-old had announced that his partner, Noa van der Bij, was pregnant with their second son, Elijah. In a heart-rending update on social media this week, the pair announced that Noa had suffered a miscarriage. The post read (via Sportskeeda h/t Mirror):
"With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy. Thank you for your love and support. Elijah Raphael Gakpo, Forever loved. Forever our son."
Many expected Gakpo to take a break from the national team after the heartbreaking news. However, an update from Fabrizio Romano claimed that he was ready to play for the Oranje in their FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash against Morocco.
The update, posted by the Italian journalist on Instagram, read:
"Cody Gakpo has decided to play, making himself available today after terrible news over the weekend… The emotional impact has been big, a terrible news for him together with Noa, Cody, the whole family, those close to them. Cody has decided to confirm his availability tonight for his country, his teammates… for Noa, and also for Elijah. 𝐂𝐨𝐝𝐲... you’ll never walk alone."
He was named in Ronald Koeman's starting lineup for the all-important FIFA World Cup clash against the Atlas Lions. Although he had a quiet first half, he became a point of difference in the second period.
In the 72nd minute of the game, Netherlands winger Crysencio Summerville was played in behind the Moroccan defense. Although he lost his balance while trying to control the ball, he managed to get it across to Gakpo, and the 25-year-old smashed it past Yassine Bounou.
The attacker, who plays for Premier League side Liverpool, fell to the ground and was in tears after the strike. His teammates immediately surrounded him and comforted him, a scene that warmed the heart of the entire footballing world watching on.
If the Netherlands manage to overcome Morocco in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup, potential future opponents include Canada in the Round of 16 and France in the quarter-finals.