Rode Duivels Fans Create Unusual Atmosphere in Meise Bakery During World Cup Match, Police Step In

The Belgian national football team, known as the Rode Duivels, sparked an unexpected scene in a Meise bakery during a World Cup match, with local supporters creating a lively atmosphere that prompted police intervention. A local fan described the event as “het was hier een zottekot” (it was a madhouse here), according to reports from Nieuwsblad. The incident occurred amid Belgium’s 2022 World Cup campaign, which saw the team finish third in their group after a draw against Iran and a loss to Croatia.

What Happened in Meise?

On June 18, 2022, during Belgium’s match against Iran in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a group of Rode Duivels supporters gathered in a bakery in Meise, a town in the province of Flemish Brabant. The event, initially intended as a breakfast gathering, escalated into a celebration that drew significant attention from local authorities. According to HLN, the police intervened, citing violations of public order regulations.

“There are rules, and they were not followed,” a police spokesperson stated, as reported by HLN. The bakery, which typically serves as a local gathering spot, became a makeshift fan zone, with supporters wearing the team’s colors and chanting in support of the Rode Duivels. The incident highlights the passion of Belgian football fans, who often travel great distances to support their team, even in unconventional settings.

Why Did the Police Intervene?

The police action in Meise was part of broader efforts to manage public gatherings during the World Cup, particularly in areas where large crowds could pose a risk to public safety. According to the Meise police department, the breakfast event for supporters violated local regulations regarding public gatherings, especially during a time when the team was playing a crucial match.

“The rules are in place to ensure the safety of everyone involved,” the police spokesperson added. The intervention included dispersing the crowd and issuing warnings to attendees about the importance of adhering to public order laws. This incident is not isolated; similar events have been reported in other parts of Belgium, where fans have gathered in unexpected locations to support the Rode Duivels during the tournament.

How Did Fans React?

Despite the police intervention, the atmosphere in the bakery remained electric, with fans expressing their support for the Rode Duivels. A local supporter, who wished to remain anonymous, shared their experience: “It was here a zottekot. Everyone was excited, and we all wanted to celebrate the team’s performance.” The sentiment was echoed by other fans who gathered in the area, many of whom had traveled from nearby cities to join the celebration.

The Rode Duivels’ performance in the 2022 World Cup was a mixed bag, with the team finishing third in their group. However, the passion of their fans, as demonstrated in Meise, underscored the deep connection between the team and its supporters. The incident also highlighted the challenges faced by local authorities in managing large gatherings during major sporting events.

Context of the Rode Duivels’ World Cup Campaign

The 2022 FIFA World Cup marked a pivotal moment for the Rode Duivels, who had high hopes of advancing deep into the tournament. The team, featuring stars like Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, faced tough competition from teams such as Iran, Croatia, and Morocco. Despite their efforts, Belgium was eliminated in the Round of 16, finishing third in their group after a 1-0 loss to Croatia.

The tournament also saw the Rode Duivels face off against Egypt, with a match that ended in a draw. This result, combined with a win against Morocco, saw Belgium secure a spot in the knockout stages. However, their journey came to an end against Croatia, leaving fans with a mix of pride and disappointment.

What It Means for Future Matches

The incident in Meise serves as a reminder of the fervor surrounding the Rode Duivels, even in the face of challenges. As the team looks to the future, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the support of their fans will be crucial. The experience in Meise