Adedokun Waliyu 
France has urged its football fans to act responsibly as the national team prepares to face African champions Morocco in a highly anticipated World Cup quarter-final, following concerns that previous high-profile matches have triggered public unrest.
Morocco gained independence from France in 1956 and has maintained a largely stable relationship with its former colonial ruler. France is also home to hundreds of thousands of Moroccans and French citizens of Moroccan descent, creating strong cultural and family ties between the two nations.
Several players in Morocco’s national team were born in France and currently play for French clubs. Team captain Achraf Hakimi was born in Spain but plays professionally for Paris Saint-Germain.
Celebrations were largely peaceful when France defeated Morocco in the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. However, French authorities are taking no chances ahead of the latest encounter, with security forces placed on high alert across the country during Thursday night’s match.
France’s Sports Minister, Marina Ferrari, appealed to supporters to celebrate responsibly, stressing that the occasion should remain a joyful sporting event. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez also warned that authorities would not tolerate any form of misconduct.
Security concerns have been heightened by recent incidents following major football matches. After Paris Saint-Germain defeated Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League final in May, Paris police arrested 225 adults. About half of those arrested were charged with offences including confronting police officers and causing property damage.
French authorities hope supporters of both teams will celebrate peacefully and ensure that the World Cup quarter-final is remembered for the football rather than any disorder off the pitch.
