Cody Gakpo is asking for privacy after announcing the heartbreaking loss of his unborn son during the World Cup

Cody Gakpo and partner Noa van der Bij mourn the loss of their unborn son during the 2026/X FIFA World Cup, AP Liverpool and Netherlands striker Cody Gakpo has asked for privacy after he and partner Noa van der Bij announced the devastating loss of their unborn son during pregnancy. The couple, who revealed they were expecting their second child together at the end of May, shared the heartbreaking news on social media as Gakpo remains with the Netherlands squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.The 27-year-old 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 traveled 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 the family’s devastating loss

The news was first shared by Noa van der Bij, who posted a photo of herself and Gakpo holding hands over a blanket and knitted baby hat.“It is with broken hearts that we share the devastating news that our baby boy died 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, along with a photo of a candle and a cross, describing a visit to church with the couple’s young son Samuel.

Image: Instagram

“We went to the church to light a candle. After that, my son Samuel and I went to the church playground.“There was only one other child. His name was Elijah. It couldn’t 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 his own message, asking for understanding during an 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.”The couple announced at the end of May that they are expecting their second child, due in October.

World Cup duties continue amid personal heartbreak

The announcement comes as 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, supporting Gakpo in the early stages of the tournament.Since then, the Liverpool forward has played a major role in Ronald Koeman’s side’s run as Group F winners, starting all three of their group stage matches, scoring twice and assisting in the Netherlands’ emphatic 5-1 win over Sweden to secure qualification for the knockout stages.The Netherlands finished the group stage unbeaten and now face Morocco in the round of 32 on Tuesday, with Gakpo expected to remain part of Koeman’s plans despite deeply personal circumstances.However, football has taken a back seat for now as Gakpo and Van der Bij mourn the loss of their son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, while also asking for privacy as they grieve with their family.