Two individuals have tragically lost their lives in the heart of Brussels just before the scheduled football match between Belgium and Sweden. This information has been confirmed by the public prosecutor’s office, as reported by various sources. As a result of this distressing incident, the football match was subsequently canceled. The Swedish players decided to remain in the dressing room after the halftime break. Sudinfo La Capitale reported that at least one of the victims was wearing a Swedish national team jersey. Expressen, a Swedish news outlet, has stated that multiple Belgian media sources have reported that the assailant shouted ‘Allahu akbar’ before discharging the fatal shots.
It has been reported that there is a video recording of the harrowing event that transpired in Place Sainctelette in the Belgian capital.
A video depicting the violent incident is currently circulating widely, revealing the distressing moment when at least one individual fell to the ground. According to information from several media outlets, the individuals responsible for the attack are believed to be Swedish citizens. This was confirmed by Ilse van de Keere, spokesperson for the Belgian police.
Moreover, several reports suggest that the assailant fled the scene on a scooter. In response to the escalating situation, Belgium elevated its terror alert to the highest level, prompted by a video shared on social media in which an individual claimed responsibility for the attack on behalf of the Islamic State. “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,” announced UEFA in a statement on its official website.
Swedish journalists present at the game indicated that they were informed of the attack just before the national anthems were to be played. In light of the circumstances, the Swedish players communicated to UEFA their decision not to proceed with the second half, which was agreed upon by the Belgian team, as reported by Swedish broadcaster TV6. At the time of suspension, the score was tied at 1-1, and Swedish fans were advised to remain inside the stadium.
Belgium had already secured its place in the forthcoming finals in Germany, while Sweden no longer had a chance to qualify. “I feel completely shocked,” expressed Sweden fan Pernilla Califf to the Aftonbladet newspaper. “We don’t understand anything. Everyone is taking off their Swedish shirts and changing into neutral clothes. This is really unpleasant.”
