Morocco’s dramatic penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands sparked jubilant celebrations and clashes with police in The Hague on Tuesday, as supporters poured onto the streets to celebrate their country’s place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.
The celebrations were centred in the Schilderswijk district, home to one of the largest Moroccan-Dutch communities, after Morocco secured a thrilling victory in Monterrey, Mexico.
Supporters dressed in Moroccan colours waved flags, sang, danced and cheered as fireworks lit up the sky and motorists joined the celebrations by sounding their horns. Hundreds of fans gathered at major intersections, with some climbing onto vehicles while others chanted and celebrated in the streets.
Morocco sealed qualification after a tense 1-1 draw with the Netherlands was decided on penalties. Ismael Saibari, who plays for Dutch club PSV Eindhoven, scored the decisive spot-kick to send the Atlas Lions into a Round of 16 clash against co-hosts Canada.
The celebrations remained peaceful for nearly an hour before riot police moved in to disperse the crowds.
Officers deployed water cannons and used batons to restore order as confrontations broke out with some supporters.
AFP journalists reported that around a dozen people were arrested during the operation, with several individuals restrained and taken away in police vehicles. Bicycle patrol officers also chased groups of youths through nearby streets.
Despite the unrest, authorities said there were no reports of major property damage, and the situation was eventually brought under control.
The match carried special significance because of the close historical ties between Morocco and the Netherlands, as well as the country’s large Moroccan community.
Similar celebrations were also recorded in several European cities with sizeable Moroccan populations, although the most serious clashes with police were reported in The Hague.
Attention now turns back to the tournament, where Morocco will face Canada in the Round of 16 as they continue their impressive World Cup journey.
Source: AFP
