Gakpo Scores but Netherlands Fall to Morocco on Penalties
Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo opened the scoring for the Netherlands in their Round of 32 clash against Morocco at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday, June 30. The 27-year-old netted a composed finish in the 72nd minute, giving the Dutch hope of advancing to the Round of 16. However, Morocco substitute Issa Diop headed home a cross from Chemsdine Talbi late in regular time, forcing extra time. Neither side could break the deadlock in the additional 30 minutes, with Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen making a sensational point-blank save to deny Soufiane Rahimi. The match went to penalties, where Morocco triumphed 3-2. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saved Crysencio Summerville's spot-kick, and Ismael Saibari converted the decisive penalty to send Morocco to the Round of 16. There, they will face co-hosts Canada in Houston on July 4, according to Al Jazeera.
Personal Tragedy Behind Emotional Celebration
Gakpo's emotional reaction after scoring was tied to a devastating personal loss. Days before the match, he and his partner, Dutch model Noa van der Bij, announced the heartbreaking loss of their unborn son. The couple, expecting their second child in October, shared the news on social media: "With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy. Thank you for your love and support. Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Forever loved. Forever our son." Despite the tragedy, Gakpo chose to remain with the Netherlands squad and play in the crucial knockout match.
Teammates Console Gakpo After Goal
After scoring, Gakpo dropped to his knees, tears streaming down his face. His teammates quickly surrounded him, with Netherlands captain and Liverpool teammate Virgil van Dijk among the first to offer comfort before the players returned to their half, per FIFA. The moment drew widespread sympathy from fans globally, who praised Gakpo's courage and resilience. One fan, @OItseuwa, wrote: "For Cody Gakpo to step onto the field to actually 'play' or better still, be able to do what he loves....that's a test of character and mental strength right there most especially during this time for him and his family......that is to say that football is more than a game."
Morocco Advances to Face Canada
CAF confirmed Morocco's Round of 16 opponents after their victory over the Netherlands. The Atlas Lions reached the knockout stage for the second consecutive tournament. They will now face Canada, who advanced after defeating South Africa in the Round of 32 with a late strike from Stephen Eustaquio.
