Cody Gakpo Receives Support From Netherlands Team After Tragic Personal Loss
Cody Gakpo is receiving widespread support from his Netherlands teammates and manager Ronald Koeman after the tragic loss of his unborn son. Despite the personal tragedy, the forward remains committed to the team as they prepare for their World Cup round-of-32 match against Morocco.
Highlights
- •Cody Gakpo and his partner Noa van der Bij announced the tragic loss of their unborn son, Elijah Raphael.
- •The Netherlands national team and manager Ronald Koeman have offered full support while respecting the family's privacy.
- •Despite the personal tragedy, Gakpo has remained with the squad for the 2026 World Cup in Mexico.
- •Teammates, including captain Virgil van Dijk, have praised Gakpo's remarkable maturity and continued professional focus during this time.
The Netherlands national football team is rallying behind forward Cody Gakpo following the heartbreaking announcement that he and his partner, Noa van der Bij, have lost their unborn son. Despite the profound personal tragedy, Cody Gakpo has maintained his commitment to the team as they prepare for a critical match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Support for Cody Gakpo During World Cup Campaign
The news was shared by Noa van der Bij on social media, where she paid a moving tribute to their son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo. In a display of deep emotional resilience, the professional forward has chosen to remain with the national squad currently based in Mexico for the tournament. The team leadership, including manager Ronald Koeman and captain Virgil van Dijk, has expressed immense respect for the mature manner in which the family is navigating this incredibly difficult period.
Ronald Koeman emphasized that the coaching staff provided the forward with the necessary space and flexibility to be with his family during the initial days following the loss. The coach noted that at no point did the Liverpool player indicate a desire to leave the tournament, highlighting his focus and professionalism. Team members have been providing continuous support, ensuring the player feels backed by his peers as they prepare for their upcoming round-of-32 clash against Morocco.
Virgil van Dijk underscored the sentiment of the squad, noting that while football remains a significant part of their lives, such personal events put everything into perspective. He praised Cody Gakpo for his strength and maturity, affirming that the entire team remains united. The squad, which topped Group F with victories over Sweden and Tunisia, continues to train in preparation for their next challenge in Monterrey.
Focusing on the Match Ahead
As the team gears up for the knockout stages, the coaching staff is balancing emotional support with the tactical requirements of the competition. Ronald Koeman has identified areas for improvement, particularly regarding defensive transitions, and is preparing his players for the challenging heat conditions expected at the Monterrey Stadium. While the tragedy has deeply affected the team, the focus of Cody Gakpo and his teammates remains squarely on their objective of advancing further in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match against Morocco represents another significant step in their journey, with the players unified in their mission.
