Emotional celebration as Cody Gakpo scores goal for Netherlands against Morocco in World Cup days after loss of unborn child

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Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo was overcome with emotion after firing Netherlands ahead in their World Cup round-of-32 clash with Morocco in Monterrey, with the goal coming days after the loss of his unborn child.

Cody Gakpo celebrates scoring during the World Cup match between Netherlands and Morocco at Monterrey Stadium on June 29, 2026

Image credit: Getty Images

Gakpo's partner Noa van der Bij announced on Saturday the loss of their unborn son.

"With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy," she wrote.

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

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Gakpo asked for "privacy and space" following the announcement, adding ”this is an incredibly difficult time for our family”.

The forward elected to stay with the squad in North America and was named in the starting XI by Ronald Koeman for the clash with Morocco.

After a goalless first half, the African side were in the ascendency in the second period, only for The Oranje to take the lead against the run of play.

The Dutch broke at pace and Gakpo charged forward from the halfway line in support of Crysencio Summerville.

The West Ham United man flicked the ball into the box and Gakpo showed tremendous nerve to lash the home as Morocco players converged on him.

After seeing the ball hit the back of the net, Gakpo collapsed with his head to the floor - and was mobbed by his team-mates.

Gakpo was in tears as he got to his feet, and pointed to the sky after firing his side in front.

It did not prove to be the winner as Issa Diop scored for Morocco in injury time to force the match into extra time.

Gakpo's match finished eight minutes before the end of extra time, as he pulled up with what appeared to be cramp and was replaced by Justin Kluivert.

Morocco emerged victorious in the penalty shoot-out to set up a last-16 clash with Canada.

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