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last mo.

Gakpo Scores in Tearful Moment as Netherlands Are Eliminated by Morocco

He rejoined the squad after his partner revealed a pregnancy loss, prompting public displays of support with the KNVB asking for privacy.

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Overview

  • On Saturday Noa van der Bij posted that the couple had lost the baby during pregnancy and named the fetus Elijay Raphael.
  • The KNVB and coach Ronald Koeman gave Gakpo leave to be with family but he chose to return to the squad to play in the last‑16 match.
  • Gakpo opened the scoring in Monterrey, fell to his knees in visible emotion and was consoled by Dutch teammates and later by Moroccan players while his parents were seen crying in the stands.
  • The game finished 1–1 after extra time and Morocco won the penalty shootout 3–2, eliminating the Netherlands from the 2026 World Cup.
  • The Dutch federation and the family have asked for privacy, the KNVB said it provided support, and Noa van der Bij posted a short tribute expressing pride in Gakpo.