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Rabat – Spanish police are set to reinforce security across the country on Tuesday to counter any potential violence or riots as La Roja (the Spanish football team) will lock horns with Morocco’s national team in a highly anticipated round of 16 game at the ongoing World Cup.
Spanish news outlet El Mundo reported that “a special security protocol has been prepared for this Tuesday in some towns in Almeria such as Vicar, Roquetas, El Ejido, or the capital of the province itself.”
Spanish police are planning a “series of reinforcements … in case some type of intervention is necessary,” El Mundo added.
The move seeks to avoid the scenario that took place in Belgium and the Netherlands last week, as riots broke out in the European countries following Morocco’s World Cup wins.
Authorities in Brussels and across the Netherlands arrested dozens in riots after the Atlas Lions won against Canada and advanced to the tournament’s knockout phase.
In addition to the city of Almeria, Spanish authorities will deploy special security units across cities with a large Moroccan community, including Majorca island.
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According to Majorca Daily Bulletin, local police consider today’s game a “highly sensitive” match and will be prepared in case clashes erupt between Moroccan and Spanish fans.
The Center of Imams for Peace Association in Spain has urged the Muslim community, particularly Moroccans, to “adhere to the principles of Islam and respect the feelings of others,” El Mundo reported.
In addition, Morocco’s Consulate in Almeria called on the Moroccan community to “show sportsmanship and good manners based on respectful behavior in case of victory or defeat.”
As they prepare to take on La Roja, one of the favorites to win the World Cup, the Moroccan Atlas Lions are looking to book their first-ever ticket in the World Cup’s quarter-finals.
