Overview
- On Saturday, June 27, Gakpo’s partner Noa van der Bij announced on Instagram that their unborn son, named Elijah Raphael, had died during the pregnancy and the family asked for privacy.
- After discussing the tragedy with his partner the Dutch FA confirmed Gakpo chose to remain with the Netherlands squad and be available for the round-of-32 game.
- Gakpo opened the scoring in Monterrey in the 72nd minute but immediately collapsed in tears on the pitch and was surrounded and consoled by teammates and staff.
- Morocco scored a stoppage-time equaliser to force extra time and then won the match on penalties, eliminating the Netherlands from the World Cup.
- Gakpo’s goal capped a strong tournament display yet left him and his family publicly grieving while the KNVB and teammates continue to offer support and respect their request for privacy.