Cody Gakpo Remains With Dutch World Cup Squad After Tragic Personal Loss
Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo has chosen to stay with the national team at the World Cup after he and his partner, Noa van der Bij, tragically lost their unborn child. The KNVB has confirmed his commitment to the squad ahead of their match against Morocco.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
1 MIN READ- Cody Gakpo and his partner lost their child during pregnancy while he was at the World Cup.
- The striker has decided to remain with the Netherlands national team camp.
- Gakpo is expected to be available for the upcoming match against Morocco.
- The Dutch Football Federation has offered its full support to Gakpo and his family.
The football world has rallied around Cody Gakpo, the Liverpool and Netherlands striker, as he navigates a profound personal tragedy during his participation in the ongoing World Cup. While competing on the global stage, the forward and his partner, Noa van der Bij, suffered the devastating loss of their child during pregnancy.
The news was shared publicly through a heartfelt message on social media, where the couple expressed their grief and requested privacy during this incredibly difficult time. Gakpo, who has been a key figure in the Dutch national team, chose to address the situation directly by confirming the loss and asking for respect and understanding from the public as he and his family attempt to process their heartbreak.
Support and Commitment Amidst Grief
Despite the overwhelming personal loss, Cody Gakpo has made the courageous decision to remain at the team's training camp. The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) has officially confirmed that the player will continue to be with the squad, supported by the organization and his teammates, as they prepare for the upcoming round-of-16 clash against Morocco. Coach Ronald Koeman is expected to have the striker available for selection in the match.
In a touching detail shared by his partner, Noa van der Bij, the couple found small moments of comfort together, visiting a church to light a candle. They also shared a poignant experience at a playground where they encountered a child sharing the name they had intended for their own son, Elijah, an event they described as a meaningful sign.
The Dutch Football Federation has issued a statement extending their deepest condolences to Gakpo, Noa, and their family, including their son Samuel. They emphasized that the situation is a deeply private and sorrowful matter, affirming that they would not provide further commentary, leaving any future updates to the discretion of the family. The sporting community has widely praised Gakpo for his resilience and professional dedication during such a challenging chapter in his life, acknowledging that in moments of extreme personal pain, the game of football often takes a backseat to the realities of life.
