Cody Gakpo and Partner Suffer Heartbreaking Pregnancy Loss During World Cup Campaign

Football often delivers unforgettable highs, but sometimes life reminds us that some moments are far bigger than anything that happens on a pitch.

Liverpool and Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo is currently facing one of the most painful moments imaginable after he and his longtime partner, Noa van der Bij, announced the loss of their unborn son during pregnancy.

The emotional news surfaced while Gakpo remains away on international duty with the Netherlands at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Instead of celebrating what should be one of the most exciting chapters of his football career, the Dutch star now finds himself navigating profound personal grief alongside his family.

Noa shared the devastating update through an emotional message on social media, revealing that the couple's baby boy had passed away during pregnancy.

“With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy.”

The grieving parents also revealed the special name they had chosen for their son:

“Forever loved. Forever our son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo.”

Finding Strength Through Faith

In the midst of unimaginable heartbreak, Noa explained how faith helped her family find comfort during an incredibly difficult period.

After receiving the devastating news, the family visited a church to light a candle before spending time with their young son, Samuel, at a nearby playground. What happened next left a lasting impression on them.

According to Noa, another child at the playground happened to be named Elijah—the very name they had chosen for their unborn son.

She described the experience as a powerful reminder that their little boy would always remain close to their hearts.

“There was another child there whose 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.”

Life has a strange way of delivering unexpected moments. Sometimes it's finding a missing sock after three months. Other times, it's a deeply meaningful coincidence that provides comfort when it's needed most.

A Joyful Announcement Turned Into Heartbreak

The tragic news comes only weeks after Gakpo and Noa publicly shared their excitement about expecting their second child.

The couple welcomed their first son, Samuel Seth, in 2024 and have largely kept their relationship away from the spotlight despite Gakpo's growing global fame.

Family photos and occasional social media updates have offered fans small glimpses into their lives, but they have generally preferred privacy over publicity.

That is why this heartbreaking announcement has resonated so strongly with supporters around the world.

Balancing World Cup Dreams and Personal Pain

The timing of the loss makes the situation even more emotional.

While many footballers dream their entire lives of representing their country at a World Cup, Gakpo has had to carry an enormous emotional burden while competing on one of football's biggest stages.

The Liverpool attacker has played a key role in the Netherlands' tournament campaign, helping the Dutch side advance to the knockout rounds. Yet behind every match, training session, and media appearance lies a personal struggle that few fans can fully comprehend.

Footballers may wear superhero capes in the eyes of supporters every weekend, but moments like these remind us they are human beings first.

Football Community Sends Love and Support

As news of the miscarriage spread across social media, fans, football clubs, journalists, and fellow players rallied around Gakpo and his family with heartfelt messages of support.

Many supporters shared prayers, condolences, and words of encouragement for the couple and their son Samuel as they continue to process the loss.

See some reactions from X below.

Oh my God! This is heartbreaking. Sending my love and prayers to Gakpo and his family ❤️🙏 

— Olorogun (@DavidMOlorogun) June 27, 2026

¡ESTA NOTICIA NOS ROMPIÓ EL CORAZÓN!

Mientras Cody Gakpo está concentrado con la Selección de Países Bajos en la Copa del Mundo.

Su novia Nos van der Bij compartió la noticia de que lamentablemente falleció su bebé durante la etapa del embarazo. Ambos están destruidos por la… pic.twitter.com/3szZRFt1pV

— Motivaciones Fútbol (@MotivacionesF) June 27, 2026

Lamentamos mucho el dolor y la pérdida de Cody Gakpo y su novia, Noa van der Bij, al anunciar que perdieron a su bebé durante el embarazo. 💔🇳🇱 pic.twitter.com/gc2j9uvAxv

— Futbol de Inglaterra (@Mercado_Ingles) June 27, 2026

Devastating news as Cody Gakpo and his partner have announced that they sadly lost their baby during pregnancy 💔

Our thoughts are with them both and their families in this truly heartbreaking time.

You’ll Never Walk Alone.

— The Redmen TV (@TheRedmenTV) June 27, 2026

As Gakpo continues his World Cup journey, football fans everywhere will undoubtedly be hoping that he and his family find comfort, healing, and strength in the difficult days ahead.

Some losses transcend sport, league tables, trophies, and medals. This is one of those moments. The entire football community stands united in sending love and support to Cody Gakpo, Noa van der Bij, and their family.