French Security Services On High Alert For Morocco-France World Cup Semi-Final: 'Get Ready For Riots & Violence'

French Security Services On High Alert For Morocco-France World Cup Semi-Final: 'Get Ready For Riots & Violence'—France’s government says security services are on high alert ahead of a major World Cup knockout match pitting France against African champions Morocco. The match is scheduled for Thursday at 4:00 PM ET, and Sports Minister Marina Ferrari urged fans to treat it as “a celebration,” while Interior Minister Laurent Nunez warned that “no misconduct would be tolerated.” The article links the heightened attention to wider social tensions, noting Morocco’s historical status as a French protectorate from 1912 to 1956 and that Morocco’s team includes players born in France or who play for French clubs, including Achraf Hakimi at Paris Saint-Germain. It also cites prior events: ahead of France’s 2022 victory over Morocco, around 10,000 police were deployed nationwide, with 5,000 in Paris, and more than 250 people were arrested after clashes.