Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo is set to play for the Netherlands in their World Cup clash with Morocco on Tuesday, just days after his partner Noa van der Bij revealed the couple's baby boy had died during pregnancy. The announcement came on Saturday, prompting an outpouring of support.
Van Dijk and Koeman Express Support
Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk praised Gakpo's handling of the tragedy. "Being there for Cody is the most important thing," Van Dijk said at a press conference on Sunday. "It's terrible. At such a moment it becomes clear again that football is a side issue. And that there are more important things in life. It's very sad. You never want to go through this. But as the national coach says and knowing Cody, he is very keen to continue for a round. He dealt with it very maturely. I have a lot of respect for how he, but also Noa and his family, have handled this."
Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman disclosed that the squad had offered Gakpo compassionate leave, but the striker insisted on playing. "That was sad news we heard," Koeman said. "What Cody, his wife and family have been told. We did everything in our power to support him. As a staff, we gave him the freedom to leave the hotel and be with the family in the first few days. I think Cody handled that very well. There has never been a moment when he said, 'I want to go back [home]' or 'I want to be with the family.' He has assessed that himself and done it in his own way. I think that shows maturity, how he and the family have dealt with this. So he's ready to play and it doesn't weigh on his performance. He does this in his own way with the family, and that is very strong and beautiful."
Noa van der Bij's Heartbreaking Announcement
In a social media post on Saturday, Noa van der Bij 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 couple had named their son Elijah.
The Netherlands face Morocco at Estadio Monterrey at 2am UK time on Tuesday. Gakpo, 27, has been a key player for Liverpool and the Dutch national team. His decision to play has been widely praised as a testament to his resilience.
