Cody Gakpo found the net for the Netherlands in their Round of 32 clash against Morocco at the 2026 World Cup — but his celebration told a story far heavier than the goal itself.

The Liverpool winger broke down on the pitch after sweeping in the Dutch opener in the second half, with his teammates immediately rushing from the bench to console and congratulate him inside the Morocco penalty area. The goal moved Gakpo to within one strike of equalling Johnny Rep's record as the Netherlands' all-time top scorer at World Cups.

A family tragedy behind the muted moment

Gakpo had taken to the field despite enduring a deeply painful 48 hours. He and his partner had suffered the loss of their unborn child, and he had spent that time surrounded by family before rejoining the squad.

Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman paid tribute to Gakpo's resilience, revealing that the player had never wavered in his commitment to the team during those dark days.