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Sports Minister Marina Ferrari calls for responsibility ahead of France-Morocco quarter-final match
via SeneNews5 min read
Marina Ferrari, Minister of Sports, Youth and Associative Life, has called for increased vigilance and individual responsibility ahead of the quarter-final match between France and Morocco in the 2026 World Cup. She emphasized the importance of maintaining a festive spirit during the encounter, noting that as the tournament progresses to the final phases, the risk of disturbances increases. The Minister of the Interior, Laurent Nunez, has already requested enhanced security measures for upcoming World Cup matches, stating that "no overflow will be tolerated." This directive was sent to prefects and heads of police, gendarmerie, the Paris police prefecture, and internal security on July 1. Ferrari reiterated these instructions, mentioning clear directives to prefectures to strengthen security, be extremely vigilant, intervene quickly, and not tolerate any disturbances, including potentially banning alcohol sales in public spaces. She concluded by expressing hope that the evening would remain a celebration of sport. In Paris, an extension of terrace hours until 2 AM was proposed by the Mayor, as an alternative to a fan zone, allowing for extended opening hours in private establishments. Prior to the World Cup, the National Directorate of Public Security had warned of potential disturbances across the country, such as noisy processions, motorized rodeos, spontaneous public gatherings, and the use of fireworks, particularly around matches involving Morocco, Algeria, or Turkey.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Norwegian forward Erling Haaland, born in England and a Manchester City player, stated that facing the Three Lions in the World Cup quarter-final in Miami will be "really special." He acknowledged the unusual nature of the match, given his English birthplace and current club football in England, where he will play against teammates. Haaland's birth in England was due to his father, Alfe Inge Haaland, playing for Leeds at the time. The 25-year-old striker, who has scored seven goals in the tournament, expressed his enjoyment of the World Cup experience, calling it "wonderful to be here, to be able to play on a big stage with my friends." He also reflected on Norway's unexpected journey to the quarter-finals, especially after their 2-1 victory against Brazil in the round of 16, a match in which he scored twice. Haaland described the win against Brazil as "crazy for us, the Norwegians," and noted the incredible scenes in Norway following their progress. He identified England as clear favorites for the upcoming match, suggesting that Norway should "put all the pressure possible on the English." Haaland's performances have also garnered him significant attention in the United States, where he appreciates the American fans, finding them "funny." He described his overall World Cup experience as "incredible" in all aspects, from the matches and stadiums to the training facilities.
Must ReadIsraeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Thursday during a military ceremony that the Israeli army is prepared to attack Iran "a third time if necessary" and "even more harshly." This statement comes amidst renewed fears of a ceasefire breakdown, following new strikes by the United States in Iran and by Tehran against Washington's regional allies since Wednesday. Katz emphasized that the army is ready and on alert for a resumption of fighting to re-establish air superiority and strike again in Iran to eliminate threats. During the same ceremony, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Iran has been weakened by Israel's two military campaigns, asserting that "Iran and its allies are weaker than ever," while acknowledging the conflict is not over. The war against Iran began on February 28, when the United States and Israel launched an aerial offensive that killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other senior Iranian officials. This was Israel's second operation against Iran, following a 12-day conflict in June 2025, in which Washington also participated.
Must ReadIsmaïl Jakobs, a defender for the Lions of Terranga, has spoken out following Senegal's early elimination from the 2026 World Cup. Jakobs expressed his pride in representing Senegal on the global stage, stating it was an immense honor to wear the jersey and defend the country's colors. He acknowledged that participating in the World Cup was the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice. Reflecting on the team's exit, Jakobs emphasized the need for collective responsibility, stating, "Ultimately, we must take responsibility as a team. No matter what happens off the field, what matters is what we show on the pitch. And this time, unfortunately, it wasn't enough." He conveyed his disappointment, believing that the Senegalese people deserved a better performance in the competition. Jakobs concluded by thanking supporters for their unconditional backing and promised that the Senegalese national team would return stronger and with greater determination.