October 16, (THEWILL) – A Euro 2024 qualifier between Belgium and Sweden was abandoned at half-time on Monday evening, following a horrific terrorist attack in Brussels, which left two Swedish football supporters dead.
The match at Stade Roi Baudouin was goalless when players failed to re-emerge for the second half after a gunman, claiming allegiance to Islamic State, opened fire on a group of Sweden fans near the stadium. Two were pronounced dead at the scene, while a third is said to be critically injured.
Harrowing footage emerged on social media showing a man on a scooter ruthlessly firing a rifle before fleeing. He remains at large with police treating the attack as an act of terrorism. In the aftermath, Belgium raised its terror alert to the highest level in Brussels and the second-highest across the country. Fans were told to remain inside the stadium amid safety fears.
A minute’s silence was impeccably observed before kick-off as the footballing world united in grief. Players were visibly emotional as the horrifying news filtered through.
The Sweden team informed UEFA they did not wish to continue playing and Belgium agreed. Authorities have said the match will not resume tonight and further updates will follow.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
