Copy linkFacebookXPinterestEmailShare this article 0Join the conversationFollow usAdd us as a preferred source on GoogleNewsletterSubscribe to our newsletterThe 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 tragedyAfter 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. You may like Netherlands squad World Cup 2026: Ronald Koeman's squad to face Japan How to watch Netherlands vs Morocco for FREE Netherlands vs Morocco prediction for round of 32 tie in Monterrey 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.Get FourFourTwo NewsletterThe best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.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.Play our FREE World Cup scores predictor and win �1kThe most important thing is to ask: What do you need? Its awful news and it shows that football is secondary. There are more important things in life. Its 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.TOPICSNetherlandsLiverpoolWorld CupJoe DonnohueSocial Links NavigationSenior Digital WriterJoe joined FourFourTwo as senior digital writer in July 2025 after five years covering Leeds United in the Championship and Premier League. Joe's 'Mastermind' specialist subject is 2000s-era Newcastle United having had a season ticket at St. James' Park for 10 years before relocating to Leeds and later London. Joe takes a keen interest in youth football, covering PL2, U21 Euros, as well as U20 and U17 World Cups in the past, in addition to hosting the industry-leading football recruitment-focused SCOUTED podcast. He is also one of the lucky few to have 'hit top bins' as a contestant on Soccer AM. It wasn't a shin-roller.
