Shocking Twist: Fatal Encounter Unfolds during Belgium vs Sweden Euro 2024 Qualifier
Belgium vs Sweden: Euro 2024 qualifier halted due to fatal shooting in Brussels Terror alert raised as two Swedish individuals tragically killed PM De Croo labels the incident a brutal act of terrorism
A man, who was suspected of killing two Swedish individuals prior to Monday's Euro 2024 qualifier between Belgium and Sweden in Brussels, has passed away. This occurred following his apprehension and shooting by the police at a café in Brussels earlier today.
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The Euro 2024 qualifier between Belgium and Sweden at the King Baudouin Stadium was halted at halftime due to a "brutal terrorist attack", as described by Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo.
The two people killed were Swedish - and a third person was wounded in the attack.
Belgian authorities have raised the terror alert to its highest level in the capital.
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Swedish fans at the King Baudouin Stadium on Monday night
"Last night three people left for what was supposed to be a wonderful soccer party," De Croo said.
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The Swedish supporters attending a Red Devils soccer match in Brussels were the specific target of the perpetrator. Tragically, two Swedish compatriots lost their lives, while a third individual is currently recovering from serious injuries, as confirmed by De Croo.
The shooting took place around 45 minutes before kick-off and three miles (5km) from the stadium.
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A map showing the location of the shooting and the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels
The score was 1-1 at half-time when the game was suspended and fans were told to remain in the King Baudouin Stadium "until security permits them to leave".
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Swedish fans after learning that the game has been abandoned due to a terrorist attack
Amongst the buzzing atmosphere at Belgium's national stadium, fans passionately echoed the chant "All together, All together," while simultaneously expressing their allegiance to their respective teams with resounding cries of "Sweden, Sweden!" After anxiously waiting, the 35,000 enthusiastic supporters were finally permitted to exit the stadium in small groups shortly past midnight local time.
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A shooting in Brussels led to Monday's Euro 2024 qualifier being abandoned
After the game, the Sweden coach Janne Andersson confirmed that they were informed about the incident during the half-time break and collectively decided to discontinue the match. He expressed, "A sense of deep sadness overwhelmed everyone, and the entire team unanimously agreed to halt the proceedings."
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Supporters turned their mobile phone lights on at half-time
Manchester United and Swedish defender Victor Lindelof stated that after engaging in discussions with both the team and the Belgians, they reached a collective decision to not continue playing. Ensuring the safety of the supporters was deemed paramount.
On the social media platform X, previously referred to as Twitter, the Swedish FA posted: "Let's remain calm and support one another. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to all the families of those impacted by the events in Brussels."
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The Euro 2024 qualifier was abandoned at half-time
The Belgian national FA also wrote: "Our thoughts are with all those affected."
