The Netherlands opened the scoring against Morocco in their Round of 32 clash at the 2026 World Cup courtesy of Cody Gakpo’s second half strike.
Liverpool winger Gakpo moved within one goal of equalling Johnny Rep’s record as the highest goalscorer in Dutch World Cup history.
The 27-year-old was put through on goal by teammate Crysencio Summerville who met Wout Weghorst’s flick on and ran clear of the Morocco backline.
Cody Gakpo in muted Netherlands celebration after family tragedy
After sweeping in the Dutch opener, Gakpo broke down on the pitch in what was a muted celebration given the significance of his goal.
The Netherlands bench emptied and ran to join the Reds’ winger inside the Morocco penalty area, consoling and congratulating Gakpo.
Gakpo started the match despite spending the past 48 hours surrounded by family following the passing of his and his partner’s unborn child.
Dutch national team boss Ronald Koeman and skipper Virgil van Dijk both praised the couple’s strength during this incredibly difficult time.
“We have done what was within our power in terms of support, as players, as staff,” Koeman said.
“Of course, the first few days he had the freedom to go out to his family and be with them. He dealt with it very well, there was never a moment where he said ‘I want to go back, I want to be with the family’.”
Van Dijk referenced the respect he feels for his club and international teammate, specifically in how Gakpo and his family had dealt with the situation.
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“The most important thing is to ask: ‘What do you need?’ It’s awful news and it shows that football is secondary. There are more important things in life. It’s very sad but Cody deals with it.”
Gakpo has scored three goals and registered one assist for the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup, netting a brace against Sweden before his Round of 32 heroics.