Belgium vs Sweden: EURO 2024 qualifier abandoned due to a harrowing terrorist attack, two people shot dead

In one of the unexpected yet horrifying turn of events, the high-intensity UEFA EURO 2024 qualifier between Belgium and Sweden was suspended after a suspected terrorist attack, where a gunman has shot dead two Swedish supporters ahead of kick-off. According to the latest football news, the match was called off in half-time, however, the perpetrator remains on the loose.

A horrifying terrorist attack stops play at Brussels

In one of the high-intensity clashes at UEFA European qualifiers between Belgium and Sweden, where qualifications were at stake, the match was called off in half-time due to an unprecedented terrorist attack which has taken the lives of two Swedish supporters. It is reported that the victims were sporting Swedish jerseys. Due to this attack, fans inside the stadium were reportedly asked to stay inside “until security permits them to leave.” The match was held in King Baudouin Stadium, as UEFA has released an official statement which read, “Following a suspected terrorist attack in Brussels this evening, it has been decided, after consultation with the two teams and the local police authorities, that the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying match between Belgium and Sweden is abandoned. Further communication will be made in due course.”

In a supporting gesture from both sides, fans were chanting “All together” as some were even heard saying “Sweden, Sweden!”, as they waited inside the stadium, waiting to be escorted outside by local police, after midnight local time.

Attack took place before kick-off

It was reported that the assault took place 45 minutes before kick-off, and was 5 kilometers away from the stadium. It remains unclear whether the victims were there to watch the game, but as reports suggest, the pair was wearing Swedish shirts. After the game was called off, Sweden coach Janne Andersson confirmed that they were told about the incident during half-time, with score tied at 1-1, and further decided on not continuing the game. He said, “Everyone was very sad and all the players agreed not to continue with the match.”

Sweden’s defender and Manchester United stalwart Victor Lindelof added, “We discussed the remainder of the match with the team and the Belgians. The conclusion was not to play anymore. The most important thing is that the supporters are safe now.”

Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo has confirmed that the victims were Swedish nationals. He has taken to social media to condemn the attack, saying, “I have just offered my sincere condolences to @SwedishPM following tonight’s harrowing attack on Swedish citizens in Brussels. Our thoughts are with the families and friends who lost their loved ones. As close partners the fight against terrorism is a joint one. “

Swedish FA wrote, “Keep calm and take care of each other. Our thoughts go out to all the relatives of those affected in Brussels”, where Belgian FA penned down, “Our thoughts are with all those affected.”

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