Gakpo to stay with Netherlands squad after loss of unborn son

Cody Gakpo will remain with the Netherlands squad at the World Cup after the devastating loss of his unborn son, a decision made in consultation with his partner and supported by the Dutch football association. The 27-year-old forward has already played every minute of his country’s three group-stage victories, scoring twice against Sweden, and now faces a high-pressure knockout tie against Morocco on Tuesday. The news, shared by his partner Noa van der Bij, underscores the emotional weight carried by players even at the highest level of international football.

What happened and why it matters now

Van der Bij announced on Saturday that the couple’s second child, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, passed away during pregnancy. In a heartbreaking post, she wrote: “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.” The message was accompanied by a photograph of the couple holding hands over a blanket and knitted hat, a small but poignant symbol of their loss.

Gakpo responded with his own statement, acknowledging the pain while requesting privacy: “This is an incredibly difficult time for our family. We kindly ask for our privacy and space. Thank you for your understanding.” The Dutch FA (KNVB) confirmed they were aware of the situation and were supporting the family, adding that Gakpo had chosen to remain with the squad. “Cody has decided, in consultation with his girlfriend, to remain with the group,” the KNVB said. “We respect their privacy and therefore will not comment further.”

How the team and tournament context frame this moment

Gakpo’s presence in the Netherlands’ starting XI has been central to their progress through the group stage. He played the full 90 minutes in all three victories, including the 2-1 win over Sweden, where he scored twice. His performances have kept the Dutch on course for a deep run in Mexico, with a last-16 tie against Morocco now the next challenge. The timing of the announcement, just hours before the squad’s next match, adds a layer of gravity to the occasion.

The KNVB’s statement made clear that the decision to keep Gakpo with the team was made with full awareness of the family’s needs. “Naturally, we were already aware of this, and the KNVB is trying to support the family where possible,” the governing body said. Their refusal to elaborate further reflects a commitment to respecting the couple’s wishes during an unimaginably difficult period.

The emotional and psychological weight of playing on

Football’s relentless calendar offers little respite for personal grief, and Gakpo’s choice to continue reflects both his professional dedication and the complex reality of modern elite sport. The Netherlands’ coaching staff and teammates will now navigate how best to support him without intruding on his privacy. The KNVB’s approach—avoiding public commentary while offering private support—sets a measured tone for how the situation is handled.

Van der Bij’s subsequent post, referencing a visit to church and a playground where a single child named Elijah was present, added a layer of personal symbolism. “There could not have been a more beautiful sign from God,” she wrote. “He reminded us that our little boy is never far away.” The message, though deeply personal, offers a glimpse into the couple’s coping mechanism and their determination to find meaning amid loss.

Gakpo’s path forward remains uncertain, but his presence in the squad underscores the dual demands of elite sport and personal resilience. The Netherlands’ next match will test more than tactics; it will measure the emotional endurance of a team that now carries an additional burden. For now, the focus shifts to Tuesday’s fixture, where the weight of expectation will sit alongside the quiet dignity of a player processing profound grief.