Riots In Brussels After Morocco's World Cup Win Over Belgium
November 28, 2022
Riots broke out in several Belgian and Dutch cities after Morocco’s 2-0 upset win over Belgium at the World Cup on Sunday.
Police detained at least 12 people after using water cannon and firing tear gas to disperse crowds in Brussels and eight more in Antwerp, AP reported.
In Brussels, dozens of rioters overturned and burnt cars, threw bricks at vehicles set fire to electric scooters.
Police moved in after one person suffered facial injuries, said Brussels police spokeswoman Ilse Van de Keere.
Subway and tram traffic was interrupted by police orders.
Brussels Mayor Philippe Close urged people to stay away from the city centre.
“Those are not fans, they are rioters. Moroccan fans are there to celebrate,” Mr Close said.
There were also disturbances in the city of Liege.
“Sad to see how a few individuals abuse a situation to run amok,” said Interior Minister Annelies Verlinden.
Police in the neighbouring Netherlands said violence erupted in the port city of Rotterdam, with riot officers attempting to break up a group of 500 people who pelted police with fireworks and glass.
Two police officers were injured in Rotterdam. By late on Sunday evening, an uneasy calm had returned to most of the cities involved, AP said.
Media also reported unrest in the Netherlands' capital Amsterdam and The Hague.
Morocco’s victory was a major upset at the World Cup and was celebrated by fans with Moroccan immigrant roots in many Belgian and Dutch cities.
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