Belgium vs Sweden abandoned after two people wearing football shirts shot dead in Brussels
onday evening’s Euro 2024 qualifier between Belgium and Sweden has been abandoned after two people wearing Sweden football shirts were shot dead earlier in Brussels.
The Swedish players informed UEFA at the half-time break that they did not want to play the second half. The Belgians agreed and, around half an hour later, the game was called off with the score at 1-1.
A statement from UEFA 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.”
Belgian broadcaster RTBF then suspended the broadcast while the Swedish fans inside the stadium were instructed to stay put for security reasons.
A post from the Swedish FA read: “Message to Swedish supporters on-site in Brussels: The Belgian police want Swedish supporters to stay in the arena for security reasons. Take part in information from officials, authorities and SvFF (Swedish Football Association) staff on site.”
The shooting in Brussels happened before the game’s evening kick-off. The victims were Swedish and wearing their nation’s football kit at the time, but it remains unclear if they were attending the game.
Belgium raised its terror alert to the highest level in Brussels after a man in a video on social media claimed responsibility for killings and said that he was from the Islamic State.
Laura Demullier, a spokesperson for the Belgium government, has confirmed the country’s security services, public prosecutor’s office and cabinet will meet at a Crisis Centre to discuss the incident.
She said: “All partners have indeed been called together. Everyone is asked to come here as soon as possible to discuss the next move.”
Speaking to reporters shortly afterward, French president Emmanuel Macron said: “Brussels was hit again by an Islamist terrorist attack … our Europe is shaken.”
