EURO 2024: Belgium versus Sweden match abandoned at half-time due to alleged terror attack
Sweden Football Fans (Source-Twitter)
The sporting world was dealt another blow recently when the Belgium versus Sweden Euro 2024 qualifying game was abandoned. Two Swedish fans were shot dead as the game was brought to an abrupt halt. There were visuals of fans crying and in shock at the developments that took place.
The World has witnessed some tumultuous times recently. Sweden had traveled to Belgium to play the home side in the Euro 2024 Qualifiers. The Swedish team needed a win to stay in contention for direct entry into the tournament.
Euro 2024 is set to be played in Germany. Italy are the defending champions after having beaten England in the last editions final in London. The latest setback will now come as a huge blow to the millions of football fans across the world.
Sweden and Belgium game abandoned after half-time
The Euro 2024 qualifying game in Belgium between the home team and Sweden was deadlocked at 1-1 when the two teams went for the break. That’s when the news came in that two Swedish nationals were shot dead during an attack that happened in Brussels.
This left many fans shocked at the development as they could be seen in tears. Many fans were in panic and were clearly seen to be terrified. The official PA of the stadium asked the fans to stay seated after the news of abandonment was confirmed.
The UEFA put out a statement that 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”
Sweden and Belgium’s Football Associations both put out a statement showing solidarity with the victims. The match was locked at 1-1 after Belgium had taken the lead thanks to Romelu Lukaku’s penalty. The equalizer came when Viktor Gyokeres scored for the Swedish team.
Spain and Scotland have qualified for Group A, while France has qualified from Group B. Belgium, Australia, and Portugal are the other teams to qualify so far. Portugal beat Bosnia by 5-0 margin. Cristiano Ronaldo scored two goals while Bruno Fernandes, Joao Cancelo, and Joao Felix scored the other goals.
