When a Win Turns into a Street Fiasco: Brussels at 7 pm
Belgium lost 1‑0 to Morocco in Qatar, and the locals had something else in mind for 7 pm that night. A handful of fans—many wearing Moroccan flags—turned a curry‑spiced celebration into an impromptu street show of pyrotechnics, flames, and scooters.
What Went Down
- Fireworks & Flame – Some rough‑necked revelers set electric scooters, cars, and sections of the highway ablaze.
- Projectile Pandemonium – Spoof‑stick weapons, sticks, and even fireworks turned into an accidental DIY bombardment.
- Injuries – One journalist’s cheek got a surprise souvenir from the fireworks; the rest were either captured or arrested.
The Police Playbook
- Water cannons & tear gas – Swirled on the makeshift battlefield once the police deemed the crowd a bit too explosive.
- Preventive patrols – Even after chaos subsided, the police kept watch across all affected sectors.
- Detections & arrests – 12 people were detained, 1 went straight to the authorities.
Official Word
The police spokesperson, Ilse Van de Keere, summed it up in plain English: “Around 7 pm calm returned, and preventive patrols remain in place.” Even staff said it wasn’t a light show, but a wild in‑your‑face riot‑situation.
Takeaway
When fans go from “What’s up?!” to “Let’s set a scooter on fire!” you need riot gear. The whole incident reminds everyone that football matches can spark gold‑rush adrenaline—just not exactly with fireworks.
