Will he return to Holland? Jackpo decides his stance on dealing with Morocco after his son’s death

The Netherlands are set to face their counterpart Morocco in the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup at dawn next Tuesday amid dire humanitarian conditions for striker Cody Jacobo, who lost his unborn child to partner Noah van der Bij, who was five months pregnant, before Koeman’s decision to continue with Ronaldo’s side.

The Royal Dutch Football Association confirmed the tragic news in an official statement, saying: “We are with Cody and his family. It’s a very sad personal situation. We are supporting him in whatever way we can,” adding that he would not comment further to protect the privacy of the player and his family.

The couple announced the tragedy on social media yesterday, Saturday, with Van der Bij writing: “It is with a heavy heart that we inform you of the death of our child while pregnant,” and Jacobo later posted a message thanking her for the support she received, asking for their privacy during this difficult time.

The couple were expecting their second child next October and have received an outpouring of support and messages of condolence from the sports community and Dutch fans since the news broke.

The 28-year-old Liverpool player, who scored twice against Sweden in the group stage and is regarded as a key member of the national team, chose to stay with the team after consulting with his partner, a decision supported by the Dutch federation, with an emphasis on protecting the player’s family from media pressure.

The Netherlands, who lead Group Six with seven points, go into their clash with Morocco with full focus despite the exceptional circumstances in Tuesday’s dawn game and will be vital to the Mills’ ambitions to win their first ever world title, while Jacobo continues to show exceptional individual strength in the darkest of human moments.