Police officer injured as clashes break out after Morocco-France World Cup match

Clashes broke out in central London after Morocco’s 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final defeat to France, with police confirming one officer was injured and four people arrested following what was described as “violent disorder.”

The unrest unfolded in the early hours of Friday after France’s 2-0 victory ended Morocco’s hopes of becoming the first African nation to reach the World Cup semi-finals for a second consecutive tournament.

Police confirm arrests and injured officer

According to AFP, tensions escalated on Edgware Road near Hyde Park after a group of supporters blocked traffic following the match.

Police said the situation deteriorated when some individuals began throwing bottles and setting off fireworks, prompting officers to intervene.

“The incident then escalated, with the group throwing bottles and setting off fireworks,” the police spokesperson said.

The injured officer is believed to have been struck by a glass bottle during the disorder.

Police confirmed that four people were arrested, while the crowd eventually dispersed and normal traffic resumed.

“The group dispersed, and traffic was restored at around 1 a.m.,” the spokesperson added.

Videos circulating on social media appeared to show confrontations between supporters and police, with some footage capturing objects being thrown at officers.

Morocco turn attention to the future

The unrest came after an emotional evening for Moroccan supporters as the Atlas Lions’ impressive World Cup campaign ended at the hands of France.

The defeat sparked disappointment among many fans, with some criticising the performances of several players, including captain Achraf Hakimi.

Despite the frustration, head coach Mohamed Ouahbi defended his squad after the match, saying the players had given everything during the tournament. He also expressed confidence that Morocco’s future remains bright despite the quarter-final exit.

Morocco leave the competition as the only African and Arab nation to reach the last eight of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, extending their reputation as one of the continent’s leading football powers despite their elimination.