The Euro 2024 qualifier between Belgium and Sweden was abandoned at half time after Swedish nationals were shot dead in Brussels.
Belgian police told the Associated Press that two Swedes were killed in what European football’s governing body UEFA described as a “suspected terrorist attack”.
The fixture between Sweden and Belgium was taking place at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels. The game was suspended at half time with the score 1-1 before the two teams and local authorities agreed to abandon the fixture.
Sweden supporters were advised to remain in the stadium following the game’s abandonment due to security reasons. Brussels has increased its terror threat to the highest level.
A UEFA statement 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.”
A statement from the Swedish football association (SVFF) read: “Message to Swedish supporters on site in Brussels: The Belgian police want Swedish supporters to stay in the arena for security reasons.
“We will return when the Belgian authorities provide us with new information. Keep calm and take care of each other.
“Our thoughts go out to all the relatives of those affected in Brussels.”
Belgian prime minister Alexander De Croo wrote on Twitter: “My deepest condolences to the relatives of this cowardly attack in Brussels.
“I am closely following the situation, together with the Ministers of Justice and Home Affairs from Crisis Center, Belgium.
“We are monitoring the situation and ask the people of Brussels to be vigilant.”
He added: “I have just offered my sincere condolences to the Swedish PM 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.”
(Photo: JOHN THYS/AFP via Getty Images)
