The Euro 2024 qualifier between Belgium and Sweden was abandoned at halftime on Monday following the fatal shooting of two Swedish men in Brussels.
The Union of European Football Associations made the decision to abandon the match after consultation with the two teams and local police authorities.
“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,” UEFA said in a statement on its website.
Swedish reporters at the game said they had been informed of the attack just before the national anthems were played. Sweden’s players told UEFA they did not want to play the second half and the Belgians agreed.
The score was level at 1-1 when news of the suspension came and Sweden’s fans were asked to remain in the stadium.
Crisis Centre Belgium said in a post on social media that arrangements were being examined to safely escort supporters from the stadium.
“Arrangements to safely escort supporters from the Belgium-Sweden match out of the stadium are being examined,”
“Supporters will be given more information at the stadium. Please follow the instructions of the emergency services.”
The two victims were reported to have been wearing Sweden shirts when they were shot.
