A police officer was injured and four people were arrested in London on Thursday night after disorder broke out on Edgware Road following France's 2-0 victory over Morocco in a World Cup quarter-final. The Metropolitan Police reported that the officer was taken to hospital with a head injury after being hit by a glass bottle.
Clashes and arrests on Edgware Road
Footage on social media showed flares being set off and missiles thrown at police officers. The Met said officers were initially called to a group of people blocking traffic, which escalated into bottle-throwing and fireworks. Four arrests were made for violent disorder, and the road reopened around 1am. Police stated they would review CCTV and social media footage to ensure all responsible are brought to justice.
Wider context of football-related incidents
The UK Football Policing Unit recorded 223 incidents related to the England-Mexico match on Monday, including six hate crimes and 32 domestic abuse incidents, with 42 arrests linked to the match. In France, a 17-year-old girl died after falling off a truck while celebrating the win over Morocco near Aulnoye-Aymeries. The driver was detained, and another teenager was hospitalized in shock.
Celebrations in France
Celebrations erupted across France, with hundreds dancing in Paris streets under police surveillance. The Metropolitan Police emphasized zero tolerance for disorder and attacks on officers.
