World Cup riot: Morocco win sparks violence in Belgium and Holland

November 28 – Following Morocco’s surprise 2-0 victory against Belgium, rioting broke out in Brussels as well as in various Dutch cities as celebrations spilt out of control.

Police deployed water cannons and used tear gas against crowds as Moroccan fans celebrated victory in the Belgian capital in the aftermath of surprise win against Belgium.

Authorities ordered the shutdown of some public transport lines. Fires were set and rocks were thrown at vehicles. About 100 police officers were deployed to restore order. At least 10 people were arrested.

Police spokeswoman Ilse Van de Keere said some fans were armed with sticks and a journalist “was injured in the face by fireworks”.

“I condemn in the strongest terms the incidents of this afternoon. The police have already firmly intervened. I, therefore, advise against fans coming to the city centre,” tweeted Philippe Close. “The police are doing all they can to maintain public order.”

“I have ordered the police to carry out arrests of the troublemakers.”

There were also disturbances in the city of Antwerp. Police in the neighbouring Netherlands said violence erupted in the port city of Rotterdam and with unrest as well in the capital Amsterdam and The Hague.

Morocco’s victory against the Belgians was another upset at the tournament. In the second half, substitutes Abdelhamid Sabiri and Zakaria Aboukhlal scored to give the Atlas Lions’ their third win at a World Cup. On four points, the Atlas Lions will play Canada in their final group game, aiming to qualify for the knockout phase for the first time in their history.

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