Full Breakdown
Morocco’s Penalty Shootout Victory Sparks Celebrations and Police Clashes in The Hague and Casablanca
6/30/2026, 9:42:20 PM
Match Outcome and Immediate Aftermath
In the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Morocco beat the Netherlands on penalties after a 1-1 draw. PSV Eindhoven forward Ismael Saibari scored the decisive spot kick, sending the Atlas Lions to the Round of 16 where they will meet co-host Canada on Saturday.
Historical Context and Diaspora Significance
Morocco’s 2022 World Cup performance, which made the nation the first African side to reach the semifinals, heightened expectations for 2026. The Netherlands hosts one of the country’s largest diaspora communities, a factor that shaped the large gatherings in The Hague after the win.
Casablanca Celebrations
Fans in Casablanca gathered in a coffee shop before the shootout, then flooded a main boulevard around 05:00 local time. They lit flares, set off fireworks, revved car engines and danced. Dozens waved Moroccan flags and chanted, “Canada, we’re coming for you,” keeping the celebration alive into the early morning.
The Hague Unrest
In The Hague’s Schilderswijk district, hundreds of supporters wrapped in flags gathered after the match. Police reported that heavy fireworks were set off and that officers were pelted with fireworks and stones. Riot squads used water cannons and batons, striking several individuals on the legs before restraining them. Some fans climbed onto passing vehicles, and officers struck several individuals on the legs with batons; no significant property damage was reported. Arrest numbers range from a few individuals to roughly a dozen.
Official Statements & Responses
Police in The Hague said that heavy fireworks were set off in Schilderswijk and that a small number of individuals were arrested for open violence. They presented the use of water cannons and batons as necessary to restore public order.
Criticism & Opposition
Observers noted that the deployment of water cannons and batons heightened tensions and caused injuries among young participants. Authorities argued that force targeted only those engaged in open violence.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the number of arrests, describing them as “a few individuals” versus “approximately a dozen.” The size of the gathering in The Hague is reported as “hundreds” in one account and “dozens” in another, leaving the exact scale uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “heavy fireworks were set off” — Police, The Hague
- “a few individuals have been arrested for committing open violence.” — Police, The Hague
- “Canada, we’re coming for you.” — Fan chant, Casablanca
- “Police were seen striking several individuals on the legs with batons before restraining them and transporting them in police vehicles.” — AFP journalists, The Hague
- “Hundreds of supporters gathered at a major intersection, kicking footballs into the air and celebrating with passing motorists.” — AFP journalists, The Hague
- “After several missed penalties by both teams, Morocco forward Ismael Saibari, who plays for PSV Eindhoven, converted the decisive spot kick to send the Atlas Lions into the Round of 16.” — AFP journalists, Monterrey match report
What’s Next
Morocco will face Canada on Saturday in the Round of 16.
