World Cup press conference halted as reporters brawl in front of bewildered player
World Cup press conference halted as reporters brawl in front of bewildered player
Amos Murphy & Bruna ReisThu, July 9, 2026 at 11:20 AM UTC
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Brahim Diaz speaks to the media -Credit:Reach Publishing Services Limited
Brahim Diaz's pre-match press conference ahead of Morocco's World Cup clash with France descended into chaos after two journalists got into a physical altercation.
The Real Madrid star was answering questions before the AFCON finalists' quarter-final matchup against the 2018 World Cup winners on Thursday when mayhem broke out inside the press conference room.
Morocco, who reached the semi-finals at the last World Cup, have delivered an impressive performance throughout the tournament in North America to book their place in the last eight. It comes after Trump official launches fresh attack on 'suspicious' World Cup ref behind Folarin Balogun drama.
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After an opening-day draw with Brazil, the Atlas Lions demolished both Scotland and Haiti to comfortably secure their spot in the round of 32.
In one of the tournament's most memorable matches, Morocco and the Netherlands remained deadlocked until a penalty shootout, with the North Africans keeping their composure to progress.
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A dominant win over co-hosts Canada in the round of 16 then propelled Morocco into the last eight, where they now meet pre-tournament favorites France.
Diaz was addressing the media on Tuesday afternoon, but halfway through a question about the squad's mindset, the session came to an abrupt stop.
A clearly shocked Diaz looked toward the crowd as one journalist could be heard yelling: "But why did you hit me? But why did you hit me? You can't hit me."
Brahim Diaz of Morocco celebrates -Credit:NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images
A staff member on stage, thought to be the press officer, tried to regain control, shouting: "Hey, hey, gentlemen, please, gentlemen."
However, the confrontation continued, with the journalist persistently claiming he had been hit by the other reporter.
At this point, a clearly shocked Diaz was struggling to keep his composure, with the former Manchester City player barely managing to hold back his grins and suppressed chuckles.
The press officer then stated: "Apologies, Brahim - go ahead, thank you."
The Real Madrid star responded: "I forgot the question!".
Source: “AOL Sports”
