The Moroccan star forgets the question after a fight breaks out at the press conference. Video

Tensions at the World Cup spilled from the pitch into the media center on Wednesday as a row between journalists threw Morocco’s pre-match press conference into utter chaos at Boston Stadium. The Atlas Lions were preparing for their monumental quarter-final showdown against France when Real Madrid star Brahim Daz took his place to address the press. Before the right-hander could ask about the upcoming heavyweight bout, pandemonium broke out in the back of the room.

The two reporters engaged in a heated argument that quickly escalated into a physical confrontation, leaving onlookers stunned shouting “You can’t hit me!” the venue echoed.

Security personnel and press officers quickly intervened to separate the fighters and restore order, but the bizarre disruption left Diaz visibly flustered.

Trying to dispel the palpable tension with a smile once the room fell silent, the attacker looked up at the gathering and admitted, “I forgot the question!”

As the briefing continued, the narrative shifted firmly back to Morocco’s historic FIFA World Cup run in North America. Mohamed Ouahbi’s men have been the real wild card of the tournament and have endured a difficult journey that included an opening stalemate with Brazil followed by clinical displays against Scotland, Haiti and the Netherlands. AND decisive 3-0 victory over Canada in the Round of 16 they cemented their position as a real threat to the global elite.

Diaz, who had two brilliant assists in the triumph over the Canadians, used the remaining media time to issue a warning to his other opponents.

“We showed an exceptional mentality and proved what we are capable of,” Diaz noted. “We have a very important game ahead of us and everyone wants to play and contribute to the goal.”

The upcoming clash serves as a highly anticipated rematch 2022 semi-finalsgiving Morocco a prime opportunity for sporting revenge. However, standing in their way is a rampant French side who are widely regarded as tournament favourites. Les Bleus unleashed a sinister attacking triumvirate of Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and Kylian Mbappe who combined to fire France to a ruthless run of 14 goals in five games.

While much of the pre-match build-up focused on how Morocco’s back line would contain Mbappe, Diaz, his Real Madrid team-mate, insisted that sentimental club ties would be completely put aside at kick-off.

“Kylian is a great player with exceptional qualities,” concluded Diaz. “But friendship and respect stop once the match starts. I will give everything in my power to help Morocco win.”

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Issued by:

Akshay Ramesh

Published on:

09 Jul 2026 16:35 IST