[Saba Sports News] In the World Cup Round of 32, the Netherlands were eliminated by Morocco in a penalty shootout, crashing out at the last 32 stage. According to Dutch media reports, clashes between police and civilians erupted in multiple Dutch cities after the match.
Reports state that the moment Ismael Saibari converted the match-winning penalty and the final whistle blew, the streets of major Dutch cities were flooded with Moroccan supporters, part of the country’s 400,000-strong Moroccan-origin community. Fireworks, smoke bombs and chants filled the air as celebrations initially got into full swing in cities including Utrecht and Amsterdam. However, tensions quickly turned ugly in the Schilderswijk district of The Hague, where a large police presence had been deployed ahead of the fixture. Local authorities issued a statement: “Heavy fireworks were set off, and police officers were attacked with fireworks and stones. Riot police charged forward and deployed water cannons, while several people were arrested for public violence.”
The editor believes that all rules were completely ignored. Unruly fans crowded onto pavements and cycle lanes, creating a dangerous situation, especially for people commuting to work or heading to sports events.