In a dramatic turn of events, the Africa Cup of Nations match between Morocco and the Democratic Republic of Congo concluded in a heated brawl, stealing the spotlight from the 1-1 draw.
Morocco's early lead, courtesy of Achraf Hakimi's stunning sixth-minute volley, was nullified by Silas Katompa Mvumpa's 76th-minute equalizer. However, the real drama unfolded after the final whistle.
Congo captain Chancel Mbemba, who had already received a yellow card, found himself in a heated exchange with Morocco's manager Walid Regragui. The exchange turned confrontational, with Mbemba visibly angered by Regragui's remarks.
Amidst the chaos, players from both sides intervened, with some attempting to calm the situation, while others engaged in pushing and shoving.
The situation got even crazier as Mbemba was guided into the tunnel, followed by angry Youssef En-Nesyri. Morocco goalie Yassine Bounou tried to calm things down, pulling on En-Nesyri's vest to stop him from chasing Mbemba. Videos on social media captured the wild scenes.
Speaking after the game once tensions had cooled, Morocco boss Regragui commented: "I have nothing to say about that. I have a lot of respect for Mbemba. Maybe it was the adrenaline that made him respond like that. There's no problem. I regret it because we did not give a good image, neither to us nor to the DRC."
