Belgium vs Sweden, Euro 2024 Qualifier: In a shocking turn of events, the Euro 2024 qualifier match between Belgium and Sweden was abruptly abandoned at half-time due to a tragic shooting incident in Brussels. Two Swedes were shot dead just 45 minutes before kick-off, casting a pall over the sporting event. The incident took place approximately three miles from the King Baudouin Stadium.
The shooting occurred at the junction of Saincteclette and the Boulevard du Neuvieme de Ligne, located in the heart of Brussels, raising serious concerns about safety and security at sporting events. Two individuals lost their lives during this tragic event, while a third, a taxi driver, is reportedly out of danger according to Belgium's National Crisis Centre.
The decision to halt the Belgium vs Sweden was made at half-time, with the score tied at 1-1. Belgium, who have already qualified for the next year's tournament, had managed to equalise with the help of a Romelu Lukaku penaly after Viktor Gyokeres' goal put Sweden in the goal.
Meanwhile, fans attending the Belgium vs Sweden match were instructed to remain within the stadium until security clearance allowed them to leave the stadium premises.
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."
The National Crisis Centre in Belgium heightened the terror alert in Brussels to the highest level after an individual claimed responsibility for the attack in a social media video. Currently, there is no evidence suggesting a connection to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, according to the National Crisis Centre.
(With Inputs From IANS)