Updated: Jun 28, 2026, 02:01 IST
Liverpool and Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo has asked for privacy after he and his partner, Noa van der Bij, announced the devastating loss of their unborn son during pregnancy. The couple, who revealed at the end of May that they were expecting their second child together, shared the heartbreaking news on social media while Gakpo remains with the Netherlands squad at the FIFA World Cup 2026.The 27-year-old has continued to represent his country throughout the tournament, helping Ronald Koeman’s side finish top of Group F and reach the Round of 32. His partner had travelled to support him during the World Cup opener against Japan, but the family’s focus has now shifted away from football following the loss of their baby boy, Elijah Raphael Gakpo.
Gakpo and partner announce devastating family loss
The news was first shared by Noa van der Bij, who posted a photograph of herself and Gakpo holding hands over a blanket and a knitted baby hat.“With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy,” she wrote.“Thank you for your love and support. Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Forever loved. Forever our son.”Van der Bij later shared another deeply personal message alongside a photograph of a candle and a cross, describing a visit to church with the couple’s young son, Samuel.
Image: Instagram
“We went to church to light a candle. Afterward, we walked to the church playground with our son Samuel.“There was only one other child there. His name was Elijah. There could not have been a more beautiful sign from God. He reminded us that our little boy is never far away.”Gakpo also addressed the tragedy in a message of his own, asking for understanding during an incredibly difficult period 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.”The couple had announced at the end of May that they were expecting their second child, with the baby due in October.
World Cup duties continue amid personal heartbreak
The announcement comes while Gakpo is representing the Netherlands at the FIFA World Cup in North America.Van der Bij was present in the stands for the Netherlands’ opening 2-2 draw against Japan two weeks ago as she supported Gakpo during the early stages of the tournament.Since then, the Liverpool forward has played a leading role in Ronald Koeman’s side progressing as Group F winners. He started all three group-stage matches, scoring twice and providing an assist in the Netherlands’ emphatic 5-1 victory over Sweden as they secured qualification for the knockout rounds.The Netherlands completed the group stage unbeaten and will now face Morocco in the Round of 32 on Tuesday, with Gakpo expected to remain part of Koeman’s plans despite the deeply personal circumstances.For now, however, football has taken a secondary place as Gakpo and Van der Bij mourn the loss of their son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, while requesting privacy as they grieve with their family.
