Morocco eliminated the Netherlands from the 2026 World Cup in the last-32 round after a 1-1 draw and a 3-2 penalty shootout victory on Monday night [1, 2, 3, 4]. The match was marked by an emotional moment for Dutch forward Cody Gakpo, who scored the opening goal but broke down in tears on the field due to the recent loss of his unborn son [2, 3, 4].
Gakpo’s partner, Noa van der Bij, had announced the heartbreaking loss before the match, describing their baby boy, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, as “Forever loved. Forever our son” in a social media message [2, 3, 4]. After scoring, Gakpo fell to the ground and cried, receiving support and empathy from his teammates who gathered around him [2, 3, 4]. Gakpo later requested privacy for his family during the difficult time [2].
Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk acknowledged the tragedy ahead of the match, telling reporters, “It’s awful news, and it shows that football is secondary. There are more important things in life” [2, 3, 4].
The Netherlands had topped Group F unbeaten with seven points and 10 goals scored but were forced into extra time after Morocco scored a late equalizer in stoppage time [1, 3]. Gakpo was substituted in the 113th minute and did not participate in the penalty shootout [3]. Morocco scored 3 penalties to the Netherlands’ 2, sealing their advancement [1, 2, 3, 4].
Throughout the tournament, Gakpo scored three goals for the Netherlands before their elimination [3]. In the days following the tragic loss, Gakpo and his partner held a candlelight church visit and shared images on social media reflecting their grief [2, 3, 4].
Morocco had also advanced undefeated from their group, finishing behind Brazil on goal difference with seven points [1]. The penalty shootout win over the Netherlands sends Morocco into the last 16 of the World Cup.
The next World Cup round features Morocco preparing to face their upcoming opponent as the tournament progresses toward the quarterfinals.
