Morocco’s dramatic World Cup victory over the Netherlands brought thousands onto the streets of The Hague on Tuesday night, where scenes of celebration quickly gave way to confrontations with police and a series of arrests.
The North African side secured a place in the Round of 16 after edging past the Dutch in a tense penalty shoot-out following a 1-1 draw after extra time in Monterrey.
In The Hague’s Schilderswijk district, home to one of the Netherlands’ largest Moroccan communities, supporters waved Moroccan flags, danced in the streets and celebrated as car horns echoed through the neighbourhood. Fireworks lit up the night sky while groups of fans gathered at busy intersections, singing, cheering and embracing passing motorists.
The festive mood lasted for about an hour before police moved in to disperse the growing crowds.
Riot officers deployed water cannon and carried out baton charges as they attempted to clear the area. Officers on bicycles pursued small groups of youths through nearby streets as tensions briefly flared. Authorities reported no significant damage despite the disorder.
Many revellers declined to speak to journalists, with several choosing to conceal their identities by wearing balaclavas or face coverings during the celebrations.
The match itself was a gripping contest. After neither side could find a winner in extra time, the outcome was settled from the penalty spot. Both teams missed attempts before Morocco forward Ismael Saibari, who plays club football for Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven, calmly converted the decisive penalty.
His strike sealed Morocco’s victory and booked a last-16 meeting with co-hosts Canada, extending the country’s impressive run in the tournament.
While celebrations among Moroccan supporters reflected pride in a historic sporting achievement, the disturbances in parts of The Hague highlighted the challenge authorities often face in managing large spontaneous gatherings after major international football matches.
Police have not immediately released a full breakdown of the number of arrests or whether further investigations are underway.
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