Large Dutch cities preparing for France-Morocco match in World Cup quarterfinal
The four large cities in the Netherlands are all taking measures ahead of the France-Morocco match in the World Cup quarter final, which takes place at 10:00 p.m. on Thursday. During Morocco’s previous match against Canada, the cities saw large turnouts after the game, and there were disturbances in several places.
The cities are taking measures to manage disturbances while also allowing space for celebrations, Hart van Nederland reported.
In Amsterdam, police, street coaches, and community fathers will attend the watch parties and ensure a festive atmosphere.
The municipality of Utrecht said it will ensure that residents are able to celebrate supporting successes together. “Therefore, we are evaluating the events of last Saturday and adjusting our procedures accordingly.”
Rotterdam will allow celebrations, but they must end an hour after the match. “At some point, calm must return to the city. Some people have to work the next day.”
The city is taking special traffic measures and ensuring that emergency routes are kept clear. Several streets and parking garages will close at 11:00 p.m. on Thursday, including Coolsingel, Witte de Withstraat, and parts of Meent and Nieuwe Binnenweg. The roads will reopen an hour after the match.
The Hague declined to comment on which measures it is taking. Fans rioted in the city after Saturday’s match. Mayor Jan van Zanen spoke of “serious disturbances and violence against the police” in a letter to the city council. Civil rights organization Controle Alt Delete reported that the police used “disproportionate force,” also hitting people who were cooperating with batons.
The Hague city council will hold an emergency debate about the police action on Thursday.
