Moroccan communities across Europe celebrated deep into the night after “the Lions” secured their place in the final, but the scenes of joy in several cities later turned into violent clashes with police.
In a number of European capitals, thousands of Moroccan fans poured into main squares and busy streets, waving flags, singing and setting off flares as car horns echoed for hours.
However, the celebrations did not end peacefully everywhere. Police in several locations intervened after crowds blocked roads and incidents of vandalism were reported, with confrontations breaking out between some supporters and officers.
According to local authorities, the unrest led to damage to public property and vehicles in some areas, while security forces used crowd-control measures to disperse groups that refused to leave.
The qualification itself sparked widespread pride among Moroccans living abroad, with many describing it as a historic moment for the team, but the post-match disorder has also prompted calls for calm and responsible celebrations ahead of the final.
