Dutch police arrested 13 people after celebrations following Morocco’s penalty-shootout victory over the Netherlands at the 2026 FIFA World Cup turned violent in The Hague.
Authorities said some individuals threw stones, fireworks and other objects at police officers, while powerful pyrotechnics were set off in the Schilderswijk district. Motorcycle officers were also reportedly attacked, and some youths allegedly used modified devices to fire plastic pellets at police.
The celebrations began peacefully after Morocco secured qualification for the next round, with fans waving Moroccan flags, driving through the streets and sounding car horns.
However, about 30 minutes after the match, crowds heading toward Marktweg clashed with police after roads were blocked and objects were thrown.
Riot police responded by using shields and deploying a water cannon to disperse the crowd and restore order. The Hague Mayor Jan van Zanen condemned the violence, saying that while many people had gathered to celebrate the football victory, “not everyone had festive intentions.
” He stressed that attacks on police officers were unacceptable and had nothing to do with celebrating sport.Police are continuing their investigation into the disturbances.
