Noa van der Bij shared a message of support after the Liverpool forward's brave performance days after the loss of their unborn son
Cody Gakpo and Noa van der Bij in 2021
Cody Gakpo and Noa van der Bij in 2021
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Cody Gakpo's partner has shared a heartfelt message after the Liverpool forward's brave performance in the World Cup. Noa van der Bij has been in a relationship with the footballer for several years and they welcomed their first child in the world in 2024.
The couple shared the devastating news on June their second child had passed away during pregnancy. Gakpo displayed tremendous courage in the face of grief to play for the Netherlands during the country's round of 32 tie against Morocco. The 27-year-old was overcome with emotion as he scored the goal to put his side 1 - 0.
The forward stayed on his knees after putting the ball in the back of the net as his compatriots rushed to his side in a powerful moment. Noa has taken to Instagram this morning to pay tribute to her partner as she re-shared an image of Gakpo's celebration as he pointed to the sky.
She shared a heart emoji, along with a praying hands, as she said: "So proud." Gakpo's goal comes just days after Noa confirmed the tragic news about how their child, who they had named Elijah, had died during pregnancy.
She said: "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.”
In a separate post, Gakpo said: "This is an incredibly difficult time for our family. We kindly ask for our privacy and space. Thank you for your understanding."
Cody Gakpo after scoring for Netherlands against Morocco in the World Cup
Cody Gakpo after scoring for Netherlands against Morocco in the World Cup(Image: Getty Images)
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Gakpo's goal looked to be decisive to send his country into the last 16 of the World Cup. However, Issa Diop levelled in stoppage time for Morocco and the game eventually went to penalties.
Morocco won the shootout 3 - 2 as the Netherlands were eliminated from the World Cup. Gakpo's started every game for his country during the World Cup campaign.
He scored three times and became the second highest all time scorer for his country at the World Cup. The 27-year-old was substituted in the 113th minute so did not take part in the shootout.
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