Cody Gakpo's partner, Noa van der Bij, has shared a heartfelt message on Instagram after the Liverpool forward's emotional performance in the World Cup. Van der Bij, who has been in a relationship with Gakpo for several years and welcomed their first child in 2024, posted a tribute following the Netherlands' round of 32 match against Morocco.
Devastating Loss Before the Match
The couple announced on June 28 that their second child, a son named Elijah Raphael Gakpo, had passed away during pregnancy. In a statement, Van der Bij 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." Gakpo also requested privacy, stating: "This is an incredibly difficult time for our family. We kindly ask for our privacy and space. Thank you for your understanding."
Gakpo's Brave Performance
Despite the tragedy, the 27-year-old forward chose to play for the Netherlands in the World Cup. In the 44th minute, Gakpo scored a goal to put his side 1-0 up, breaking down in tears as he stayed on his knees after the goal. Teammates rushed to his side in a powerful moment of support. Van der Bij reshared an image of Gakpo's celebration, where he pointed to the sky, along with a heart emoji and praying hands, captioning it: "So proud."
Match Outcome and Elimination
Gakpo's goal looked set to send the Netherlands into the last 16, but Morocco's Issa Diop equalized in stoppage time, forcing extra time and eventually penalties. Morocco won the shootout 3-2, eliminating the Netherlands from the World Cup. Gakpo was substituted in the 113th minute and did not take part in the penalty shootout. He started every game for his country during the tournament, scoring three goals and becoming the second-highest all-time scorer for the Netherlands at the World Cup.
