Cody Gakpo [Xinhua/Yonhap]
Cody Gakpo [Xinhua/Yonhap]

Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo, 27, has chosen to remain with the national team and prepare for the round of 32 at the World Cup after his partner lost their unborn second son. The contrast is stark with the South Korean national team, who are heading home after being eliminated in the group stage.

The Associated Press reported Sunday that the baby expected by Gakpo's partner, Noa van der Vegt, had died.

Van der Vegt posted a tribute on social media, writing: "Thank you for all the love and support. Elijah Rafael Gakpo. Forever loved, forever our son."

Gakpo and Van der Vegt already have a son together; the second child had been due in October.

Despite the news, Gakpo remained at the Netherlands camp and is expected to play in the round of 32.

The Royal Dutch Football Association said in a statement that it was "supporting the Gakpo family as much as possible," adding that Gakpo had decided to stay with the squad after consulting with his partner.

Gakpo is a starting forward for the Netherlands at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North and Central America.

He scored twice and added an assist against Sweden on June 21 in the group stage, helping the Netherlands finish top of their group with two wins and a draw — seven points — and advance to the round of 32.

The Netherlands face Morocco in the round of 32 on Monday at Estadio BBVA in Guadalupe, Mexico.


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