Dutch Player Cody Gakpo (27) Praised After Emotional Evening: 'That Grief is Lasting'

Earlier this week, significant news emerged from the Dutch national team camp. Gakpo and Van der Bij announced the passing of their unborn son. While lighting a candle in a church, where Gakpo found solace in his faith, his girlfriend stated she felt a sign from above. She shared this in a brief reaction to the tragic news. Despite the difficult circumstances, Gakpo decided to play against Morocco.

In that World Cup match, a brilliant moment unfolded for Gakpo. Following a swift attack initiated by substitute Wout Weghorst and Crysencio Summerville, Gakpo found himself in front of goal and slotted home the opener, making it 1-0. He then sank to the ground, overcome with emotion and tears.

Within seconds, the entire squad gathered around the forward to celebrate the goal together and offer their support. Gakpo pulled his shirt over his face to conceal his emotions, then pointed skyward. Ultimately, he nearly became the match-winner for the Netherlands.

On the Sportnieuws.nl World Cup football podcast, Robert Maaskant, Ali Boussaboun, and host Damian Vlottes discussed Gakpo's emotional moment. "This goal didn't come from a brilliant tactical plan, but it almost became *the* story of the tournament. If Gakpo had scored the winner, after such a week…" Maaskant mused.

"I think he's a wonderful young man and a good footballer. In moments like these, you see that you can't simply suppress such emotions. You can't completely detach yourself on the field. That grief is lasting," Maaskant responded with empathy. The former coach himself experienced a difficult week due to the passing of his father, Bob Maaskant.

In the new Sportnieuws.nl World Cup football podcast, Robert Maaskant and Ali Boussaboun discuss the Dutch national team's painful exit from the World Cup. Boussaboun talks about the joy in Morocco. The Netherlands' cautious play is reviewed, as is the future of Ronald Koeman.

Maaskant expressed surprise at Virgil van Dijk during the penalty shootout, which also highlighted Bart Verbruggen's unfortunate moment. Listen to the new episode on your favorite podcast platform or watch the show on YouTube.