In the middle of the World Cup, Dutch national team player Cody Gakpo (27) has been struck by a severe tragedy: His second son with girlfriend Noa van der Bij died before birth.
Van der Bij shared the news on Saturday via her Instagram story. "With broken hearts we share the terrible news that our little boy died during pregnancy," she wrote. "Forever loved, forever our son." Van der Bij and their first son Samuel are accompanying the soccer player to the tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico; last week she posted pictures from the stadium in Texas.
Pregnancy announcement in May
The FC Liverpool striker shared his girlfriend's post and asked for privacy at the same time: "This is an incredibly difficult time for our family." Gakpo and van der Bij had announced they were expecting a second child in May. The boy was due to be born in October and was to be named Elijah Raphael.
To process the loss, the couple retreated to a church in Kansas City and lit a candle, van der Bij continued. During the subsequent visit to the playground with son Samuel, they only met one other child there: "His name was Elijah. There couldn't have been a more beautiful sign from God. He reminded us that our little boy is never far away," she described.
Gakpo stays with the team
Despite the tragedy, Cody Gakpo decided to stay with the team and finish the tournament. He made this decision in consultation with his girlfriend, the Dutch federation KNVB announced. The federation assured the family of full support, saying they feel "first and foremost for Cody and his family, for Noa and their son Samuel. This is a very sad private situation." Gakpo's club also responded: FC Liverpool sent the player and his family "love, prayers and support."
In sporting terms, Gakpo is one of head coach Ronald Koeman's most important offensive forces. On Tuesday (3 a.m.), the Netherlands will face Morocco in the first knockout round; the round of sixteen will be held in Monterrey. The federation left open whether the striker will be on the field then.
