Belgium’s Police Arrest 100 Football Fans After Morocco’s Semi-Final Match

Rabat – Riots broke out in Brussels on Wednesday following Morocco’s advance to the World Cup semi-finals, the police arrested around 100 people amid clashes between rival fans at the end of the Morocco vs France game.

Belgian police said in the early hours of Thursday that some of the detainees were accused of disturbing public order while commiting crimes such as damaging police vehicles, and possessing illegal pyrotechnics.

Moroccan fans were hoping to make it to the finals as the Arab-African country already made history by reaching the tournament’s semi-finals.

According to the report, some main roads in the city centre were cordoned off ahead of the match.

Local news Belga reported on violence in Belgium ost-game. Parts of the capital were sealed off. Water cannons and tear gas were used to disperse people during rioting.

This is not the first time riots have broken out in Brussels following a game featuring Morocco. Authorities in Brussels and across the Netherlands arrested dozens after Morocco’s win against Canada.

The police force were more prepared this time to avoid any violence, having lined the pavement of Champs-Elysees with barricades and police vans.

After the whistle was blown in yesterday’s match that saw Morocco vs France, Moroccan supporters were proud of the achievements that the Atlas Lions made in the 2022 World Cup, however some fans are feeling sadness as the Moroccan dreams of winning the finals were dashed as the team lost the semi-final against France.