Cody Gakpo has become one of the most influential footballers of his generation, combining elite performances for Liverpool and the Netherlands with remarkable consistency on the international stage. Whether fans are searching for Cody Gakpo Netherlands, Morocco, wife, baby, World Cup, or the latest news, the Dutch forward continues to attract global attention.
The 27-year-old has established himself as one of Europe’s finest attackers thanks to his pace, technical ability, intelligent movement, and eye for goal. During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Gakpo has once again found himself in the spotlight—not only for his football but also for the emotional personal challenges he has faced.
Cody Gakpo’s Rise to Football Stardom
Born in Eindhoven, Netherlands, Cody Mathès Gakpo began his football journey in the PSV Eindhoven academy. After progressing through the youth system, he became one of the Eredivisie’s standout performers before earning a move to Liverpool in January 2023.
His versatility allows him to play on either wing or as a central striker. With explosive acceleration, clinical finishing, and excellent passing, Gakpo has become an essential player for both club and country.
Liverpool supporters have watched him develop into a consistent goal scorer under successive managers, while Dutch fans see him as one of the leaders of the national team’s next generation.
Cody Gakpo and the Netherlands National Team
Representing the Netherlands has always been one of Gakpo’s greatest ambitions. Since making his senior debut in 2021, he has continued to improve his international record.
He first gained worldwide recognition during the 2022 FIFA World Cup after scoring in three consecutive group-stage matches. His performances established him as one of Europe’s brightest attacking talents.
By the 2026 World Cup, Gakpo entered the tournament as one of the Netherlands’ biggest stars and one of the team’s primary attacking threats.
Netherlands vs Morocco: Cody Gakpo Delivers Again
One of the biggest knockout matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup featured the Netherlands vs Morocco clash.
Facing a disciplined Moroccan side, Gakpo once again demonstrated his importance by scoring an emotional goal that gave the Dutch the lead. However, Morocco fought back with a late equaliser, sending the match into extra time in one of the tournament’s most dramatic encounters.
His celebration immediately caught worldwide attention as emotions overwhelmed the Liverpool forward.
The Emotional Story Behind Gakpo’s Celebration
The goal against Morocco carried far greater meaning than football.
Just days before the match, Cody Gakpo and his partner shared heartbreaking news that they had lost their unborn son during pregnancy. Despite being given the opportunity to leave the Netherlands camp, Gakpo chose to remain with his teammates while receiving full support from the Dutch Football Association, manager Ronald Koeman, and captain Virgil van Dijk.
His emotional reaction after scoring became one of the defining images of the World Cup, symbolising both personal grief and extraordinary resilience.
Cody Gakpo’s Wife and Family
Although many fans search for “Cody Gakpo wife,” the Liverpool forward is not officially married.
He has been in a long-term relationship with Dutch model Noa van der Bij, who has frequently supported him throughout his career.
The couple have built a strong family life together and often share moments from their personal lives on social media.
Cody Gakpo and His Baby
Family has become an important part of Gakpo’s life.
He and Noa welcomed their first child, a son named Samuel. In 2026, the couple announced they were expecting a second child before tragically revealing the loss of their unborn baby, Elijah Raphael Gakpo. The football community responded with an outpouring of support from teammates, clubs, and fans around the world.
Despite the personal tragedy, Gakpo chose to continue representing the Netherlands during the World Cup.
Liverpool Career Continues to Flourish
Since arriving from PSV Eindhoven, Gakpo has become one of Liverpool’s most reliable attacking players.
His ability to score from multiple positions, create chances for teammates, and perform in major matches has made him indispensable.
Liverpool have benefited from his versatility, using him as:
-
Left winger
-
Centre forward
-
Supporting striker
-
False nine
His tactical intelligence allows him to adapt seamlessly depending on the team’s needs.
Playing Style That Makes Gakpo Special
Several qualities separate Cody Gakpo from many modern forwards.
His strengths include:
-
Excellent first touch
-
Powerful finishing
-
Calm decision-making
-
Strong aerial ability
-
Intelligent movement
-
Creative passing
-
High work rate
Standing at 1.93 metres, Gakpo combines physical presence with technical elegance, making him difficult for defenders to contain.
World Cup Importance
Every major tournament seems to bring out the best in Cody Gakpo.
After starring in Qatar 2022, he entered the 2026 FIFA World Cup carrying even greater expectations.
The Netherlands rely heavily on his creativity and finishing ability, particularly during knockout matches where moments of quality often determine the outcome.
Against Morocco, he once again proved why he remains one of Europe’s elite forwards by delivering under immense emotional pressure.
Latest Cody Gakpo News
The latest Cody Gakpo news extends beyond football.
Following the tragic announcement from his family, tributes poured in across the football world. Dutch manager Ronald Koeman, Liverpool teammates, and supporters expressed solidarity while respecting the family’s request for privacy. Gakpo chose to stay with the Netherlands squad and continue competing at the World Cup, earning admiration for his courage during an incredibly difficult period.
His emotional goal against Morocco quickly became one of the tournament’s defining moments and highlighted both his mental strength and commitment to his team.
What Lies Ahead for Cody Gakpo?
At just 27 years old, Cody Gakpo is entering the prime years of his career.
Liverpool will continue to depend on his attacking quality, while the Netherlands see him as a cornerstone of their ambitions at major international tournaments. His leadership, experience, and ability to perform under pressure make him one of the most valuable players in Dutch football.
Whether supporters follow him because of his Liverpool career, his performances for the Netherlands, his World Cup heroics, or his inspiring resilience during personal hardship, Cody Gakpo remains one of football’s most respected figures.
As his journey continues, fans around the world will watch closely, hoping that both sporting success and happier moments await one of the game’s brightest stars.
