Cody Gakpo to Remain with Dutch Squad After Family Tragedy

Netherlands attacker Cody Gakpo will continue his international campaign despite enduring a profound personal loss, following confirmation that his unborn child passed away during pregnancy. The forward remains embedded with the national team as they advance into the tournament’s knockout phase.

Netherlands attacker Cody Gakpo is experiencing a profound personal bereavement following confirmation from his partner, Noa van der Bij, that their unborn son passed away during pregnancy. This tragic development emerged while Gakpo is on active international duty during the FIFA World Cup knockout stages.

The 27-year-old athlete has established himself as a premier performer for the national side during this tournament cycle. His individual contributions were instrumental in ensuring his team advanced from the opening stage, highlighted by a two-goal performance against Sweden.

An official communication from the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) verified that Gakpo chose to stay with the squad. This determination followed extensive private consultations alongside his immediate family members.

“With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy,” Van der Bij disclosed via social media.

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

The player’s partner subsequently uploaded a secondary reflective message after visiting a religious sanctuary accompanied by their firstborn child, Samuel, who was born in 2024.

“We went to church to light a candle. Afterward, we walked to the church playground with our son Samuel.

“There was only one other child there. His name was Elijah. There could not have been a more beautiful sign from God. He reminded us that our little boy is never far away.”

Gakpo released a concise public message independently, requesting absolute discretion as his relatives navigate this emotional period.

“This is an incredibly difficult time for our family. We kindly ask for our privacy and space. Thank you for your understanding.”

The native football federation affirmed its commitment to sustaining the Liverpool player throughout the remainder of the competitive schedule.

“We are with Cody and his family. This is a very sad private situation. Of course we knew about this and we support him in every way we can.

“Cody has decided, after talks with his girlfriend, to stay with the group. We respect their privacy and will make no further comments.”

WORLD CUP NOW CARRIES EXTRA WEIGHT

This family bereavement intersects with what has been a highly successful athletic display for Gakpo on the football pitch.

The Liverpool attacker earned starting assignments in all three opening group fixtures, serving as a primary catalyst for the team’s qualification into the elimination bracket. His vital double against Sweden guaranteed that the Dutch finished top of their group, cementing his tactical value under manager Ronald Koeman.

The player had previously faced minor alterations to his schedule, with local media reporting he remained on the team transport during a training session four days ago before traveling separately by car, an arrangement the KNVB later clarified was entirely authorized. The couple had initially announced the pregnancy in May, expecting the birth in October 2026.

The Netherlands are scheduled to compete against 2022 semifinalists Morocco in the upcoming Round of 32 phase. Gakpo is projected to remain available for selection despite dealing with the immense emotional weight of this family event.

Athletic pursuits naturally become secondary when families face circumstances of this magnitude. While the Dutch collective maintains its focus on capturing international honors, Gakpo remains focused on supporting his family through this period of mourning.

The entire traveling contingent has united firmly around the forward, aiming to deliver an internal support system during this challenging chapter of his life.

Future Outlook

The Netherlands national football team must balance professional preparation with deep emotional sensitivity as they enter the single-elimination phase of the tournament. Management will likely monitor Gakpo’s mental and physical readiness closely ahead of the high-stakes match against Morocco. The football community globally is expected to show solidarity with the forward during upcoming matches.

FAQs

Why did Cody Gakpo travel separately from the team coach during training?

The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) authorized alternative travel arrangements for Gakpo due to private family reasons, clarifying that the player was not late to the session.

Will Cody Gakpo miss the Round of 32 match against Morocco?

No. Following deliberate discussions with his partner, Gakpo has chosen to remain with the Netherlands squad and is expected to be available for selection.

How many goals has Cody Gakpo scored in the 2026 World Cup so far?

Cody Gakpo scored 2 goals during the group stage matches, specifically delivering a crucial brace against Sweden.

When was the baby boy originally due to be born?

Cody Gakpo and his partner Noa van der Bij had announced the pregnancy in May, with the birth of their second son expected in October 2026.