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Gakpo shows there are much more important matters in life than football

From CNA · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Context piece
  • Cody Gakpo scored for the Netherlands at the World Cup, shortly after his partner lost their unborn baby.
  • Gakpo's emotional reaction highlighted that football is secondary to personal tragedy.
  • His teammates and parents shared in his grief, underscoring the profound impact of the loss.

Cody Gakpo's goal for the Netherlands against Morocco at the World Cup on Monday was a moment of profound personal significance, overshadowing the game itself. The striker's emotional outpouring on the field underscored that even a global event like the World Cup cannot transcend deep personal tragedy.

It’s awful news, and it shows that football is secondary. There are more important things in life.

— Virgil van DijkNetherlands captain Virgil van Dijk spoke about the importance of life beyond football on the eve of the match, referencing Gakpo's personal tragedy.

Just weeks after Gakpo and his partner, Noa van der Bij, experienced the devastating loss of their unborn baby, Gakpo scored the opening goal. His immediate reaction was to fall to the ground in tears, a display of raw grief that visibly moved those in the stadium. His Dutch teammates, while celebrating the lead, quickly showed concern, understanding the depth of his sorrow.

This personal heartbreak was acknowledged even before the match. Captain Virgil van Dijk had stated the eve of the game, "It's awful news, and it shows that football is secondary. There are more important things in life." This sentiment resonated deeply as the game unfolded.

With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy.

— Noa van der BijGakpo's partner, Noa van der Bij, announced their loss on social media.

Morocco eventually equalized late in the match and won through a penalty shootout. While the Dutch faced further tears of defeat, Gakpo's earlier display of heartbreak was a poignant reminder of life's more significant challenges. Television images also captured his parents in the stands, sharing in his grief.

Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Forever loved. Forever our son.

— Noa van der BijNoa van der Bij shared the name of their unborn son on social media.

Van der Bij had shared their devastating news on social media, writing, "With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy." She announced their son's name as Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Gakpo himself requested privacy during this incredibly difficult time for his family.

This is an incredibly difficult time for our family. We kindly ask for our privacy and space. Thank you for your understanding.

— Cody GakpoCody Gakpo requested privacy for his family following the announcement of their loss.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by CNA. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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