Cody Gakpo mourns miscarriage of unborn son during World Cup

Dutch striker Cody Gakpo and his partner Noa van der Bij announced on Instagram that their unborn child, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, died during pregnancy. The couple shared a heartfelt message and asked for privacy, while thanking supporters for their love.

The Royal Dutch Football Association confirmed Gakpo will stay with the Netherlands squad based in Kansas City, Missouri, as the team progresses to the knockout stage and will meet Morocco. Gakpo, a Liverpool forward, has been a key player for the Dutch side at the 2026 World Cup, scoring two goals and providing an assist in the group stage. The personal loss has been described as a private tragedy, with the federation offering its support but abstaining from further comment.