Four people were arrested after clashes erupted along Edgware Road following France’s 2-0 quarter-final victory over the Atlas Lions.
London, United Kingdom (Running Africa) — A police officer was hospitalized, and four people were arrested after disorder erupted in central London following Morocco’s 2-0 defeat to France in the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals on Thursday night.
The unrest unfolded along Edgware Road, where large crowds had gathered to watch and react to the Atlas Lions’ elimination from the tournament. Celebrations and disappointment quickly gave way to clashes as tensions escalated after the final whistle.
Videos circulating on social media appeared to show fireworks being launched into the street, flares ignited among crowds, and riot police moving in to disperse groups of people as the situation deteriorated.
Additional footage showed objects being thrown at police officers, while other videos captured officers detaining several individuals during efforts to restore order.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that four people were arrested in connection with the disturbances.
Authorities also said one police officer was knocked unconscious after being struck by a glass bottle and was taken to the hospital for treatment. Police did not immediately provide further details on the officer’s condition.
Officers maintained a significant security presence along Edgware Road into the early hours of Friday, with police vehicles remaining on site as authorities worked to disperse crowds and prevent further disorder.
The disturbances occurred shortly after France secured a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals, defeating Morocco through second-half goals from Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé.
Despite the disappointing result, Morocco’s campaign was widely celebrated as another landmark achievement for African football. The Atlas Lions finished as the continent’s last remaining representatives, reaching the quarter-finals after another impressive run on the global stage.
The Metropolitan Police said investigations into the incidents are ongoing as authorities review video footage and gather evidence to identify those responsible for the violence.
