France has urged its supporters to remain calm and responsible as the national team prepares to face Morocco in a highly anticipated World Cup quarter-final encounter.
The appeal comes amid concerns over potential unrest, following incidents that trailed previous high-profile matches involving the French team.
French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari called on fans to maintain order and ensure the match remains a moment of celebration. “I appeal to everyone’s sense of responsibility. It has to remain a celebration,” she stated in an interview with France Info.
Echoing the warning, Interior Minister Laurent Nunez stressed that authorities would not tolerate any form of misconduct during or after the game.
Security agencies across France are expected to be on high alert throughout the duration of the match.
The fixture carries added historical and cultural significance.
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Morocco, which gained independence from France in 1956, shares deep-rooted ties with the European nation. France is home to a large Moroccan diaspora, and several players in Morocco’s current squad were either born in France or have played in French leagues.
Morocco’s captain, Achraf Hakimi, though born in Spain, currently plays for Paris Saint-Germain, further highlighting the strong football connections between both nations.
While celebrations remained largely peaceful when France defeated Morocco in the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup, authorities are taking no chances this time.
Tensions previously flared in May after Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League final victory over Arsenal, which led to the arrest of over 200 individuals for offences ranging from clashes with police to property damage.
With emotions expected to run high, officials are emphasizing unity, discipline, and sportsmanship as both teams battle for a place in the World Cup semi-finals.
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