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The Most Emotional Goal of the World Cup: Cody Gakpo Dedicates His Goal to His Late Son
The Netherlands forward broke down in tears after scoring against Morocco, delivering one of the most touching moments of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
A celebration that touched the football world
The 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered one of its most emotional moments when Cody Gakpo found the back of the net against Morocco and, instead of celebrating wildly, looked toward the sky as tears streamed down his face.
The Netherlands forward dedicated the goal to his son, who tragically passed away before birth just days earlier. His teammates immediately surrounded him with hugs in a powerful scene that quickly resonated across the football world, reminding everyone that there are moments far greater than the game itself.
A heartbreaking loss during the World Cup
The tragic news was shared only days earlier by Gakpo's partner, Noa van der Bij, in an emotional message posted on social media.
The couple had been expecting their second child, but the pregnancy ended in heartbreak while the Dutch national team was competing at the World Cup.
Following the loss, head coach Ronald Koeman gave Gakpo time away from the squad to be with his family before the Liverpool striker rejoined the team for the remainder of the tournament.
The Netherlands rallied around Gakpo
After learning of the tragedy, the entire Dutch squad came together to support their teammate.
Ronald Koeman explained that the priority had always been to give Gakpo whatever he needed during such a painful moment, while captain Virgil van Dijk praised the striker's strength and the dignity with which he and his family have handled their loss.
For everyone involved, football became secondary in the face of such profound grief.
A goal that will be remembered forever
Gakpo's strike against Morocco will be remembered for far more than its importance on the scoreboard.
In a tournament filled with spectacular goals and unforgettable performances, the image of the Dutch forward looking to the sky through tears has become one of the defining moments of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
It served as a powerful reminder that behind every footballer is a personal story, and that sometimes the beautiful game becomes a way to honor those who are no longer here.
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