Celebrations in Lille turned tense late Monday night after Morocco qualified for the knockout stage of the Africa Cup of Nations with a win over Zambia, French media reported.
Hundreds of fans gathered in the city centre to celebrate the result, but pockets of unrest broke out shortly after the final whistle, particularly around the Porte de Paris area.
Police intervened using tear gas to disperse groups accused of throwing projectiles and fireworks at security forces.
Authorities reported limited material damage, including rubbish bins set on fire, in scenes similar to those seen during previous matches in the tournament. Security forces had been deployed in advance, anticipating large celebrations due to the size of the Moroccan community in northern France.
The incidents come as Morocco topped their group, raising expectations and prompting heightened celebrations in several French cities. French outlets noted that recent AFCON matches involving other North African teams, including Algeria, had also triggered clashes, leading police to remain on high alert as the tournament enters its knockout phase.
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