Gakpo to stay with Netherlands squad after loss of unborn son

Cody Gakpo and his partner Noa van der Bij were expecting a second child together in October; Gakpo has asked for privacy following their loss; the 27-year-old will stay with the Netherlands squad at the 2026 World Cup

>Cody Gakpo will stay with the Netherlands squad at the World Cup following the loss of his unborn son.

>His partner, model Noa van der Bij, announced the news on Saturday. The couple were expecting a second child together due in October.

>Van der Bij posted a picture on social media of the pair holding hands over a blanket and knitted 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."

>She then posted a photo of a candle and cross, with the message: "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 posted: "This is an incredibly difficult time for our family.

>"We kindly ask for our privacy and space. Thank you for your understanding."

>The Dutch football association said in a statement: "First of all, we sympathise with Cody and his family, Noa and their son Samuel. This is a very sad private situation.

>"Naturally, we were already aware of this, and the KNVB is trying to support the family where possible. Cody has decided, in consultation with his girlfriend, to remain with the group.

>"We respect their privacy and therefore will not comment further on the situation, including the way in which we are trying to be there for them. We will also not provide any further information on this in the near future. If anything is shared about this, it is up to the family themselves."

>Gakpo, 27, has started all three of Netherlands' World Cup group games to help his country progress to the knockout stages, scoring twice against Sweden.

>Netherlands next play Morocco in the last 32 on Tuesday in Mexico.