**Cody Gakpo’s Emotional Tribute During World Cup Match**
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Cody Gakpo, the talented Netherlands footballer, showcased not only his skill but also his immense emotional strength during a recent World Cup knockout match against Morocco on June 29. The striker’s performance took on a poignant significance in light of recent personal tragedy. Just two days prior, Gakpo and his partner, Noa van der Bij, had publicly shared the heartbreaking news of a pregnancy loss.
In the 72nd minute of the match held in Monterrey, Gakpo found the net, scoring the first goal for his team. His celebration, however, transcended mere athletic achievement. After scoring, Gakpo momentarily covered his face, overwhelmed with emotion, before pointing to the sky in a heartfelt tribute to his late son, Elijah Raphael.
The support from Gakpo’s teammates was evident as they gathered around him on the field, forming a circle of solidarity. Eyewitness reports from those in attendance noted the atmosphere was charged with emotion as players embraced Gakpo amid cheers from the crowd and acknowledgment of the weight of his loss. Commentators described the scene as a testament to the camaraderie and compassion within the squad.
Noa van der Bij revealed the heartbreaking news of their loss on her Instagram Stories on June 27, expressing their sorrow. “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,” she wrote. Gakpo echoed her sentiments, requesting privacy for their family during this challenging time.
In the wake of the tragedy, the Dutch Football Association confirmed their support for Gakpo and his decision to continue playing in the tournament. “First and foremost, our thoughts are with Cody and his family, Noa and their son Samuel,” their statement read, adding that the team would respect the family’s privacy while continuing to offer support.
Ahead of the match, coach Ronald Koeman praised Gakpo for handling the situation with notable maturity. He commented on the emotional burden that could affect a player’s performance but expressed confidence in Gakpo’s ability to cope with such personal adversity. “He deals with things with his family in his own way. It’s very powerful, it’s beautiful, and we’ve left it there,” Koeman stated, underscoring the solidarity of the team during this time.
Despite Gakpo’s inspiring individual performance, which momentarily lifted the spirits of his teammates and fans alike, the match did not culminate in victory for the Netherlands. After a fiercely contested game that ended in a 1-1 draw, the team faced elimination in a penalty shootout against Morocco. This defeat marked the earliest exit for the Dutch team from a World Cup in their history, an outcome both disappointing and overshadowed by Gakpo’s personal loss.
Gakpo and Van der Bij welcomed their first son, Samuel, into the world in April 2025, and their family was celebrated not only for its growing size but for the joy that parenthood brings. The current circumstances, having suffered such a devastating loss, adds a new layer of emotional complexity to their journey as a family.
As Gakpo navigates his career and personal challenges, the support from his teammates and the wider football community is likely to play a crucial role. For now, Gakpo’s tribute to his son on the field serves as a moving reminder of resilience, particularly as he continues to represent his country on the world’s biggest stage.