Swedish man dies after assault at World Cup screening

A 32-year-old Swedish man has died after being assaulted during a World Cup screening event on Islands Brygge in Copenhagen on Tuesday, police confirmed.

The news emerged as another large-screen event was underway at the same location for the Morocco-Canada match. Copenhagen Police stated the man succumbed to his injuries.

Attendees at Saturday’s event expressed shock. “It’s completely insane that something like this can happen at a paid event, and that there isn’t more security,” said William Hildebrandt, who attended with his brother. The brothers noted that the atmosphere felt safer on Saturday, with a visible police presence.

Earlier this week, Copenhagen’s children and youth mayor argued the event should be shut down following the incident. However, culture and leisure mayor Christopher Røhl (RV) maintained that the episode should not ruin the celebration.

A 31-year-old man, previously convicted of knife law violations and attempted murder, has been charged in the case. He was remanded in custody for 26 days after a court hearing on Friday and denies the charges.

Witnesses told Ekstra Bladet that two groups clashed during the match after a goal was scored. The Swedish man’s role in the altercation remains unclear. Court documents reveal he suffered a brain hemorrhage and a fractured neck vertebra from blows to the neck. Prosecutors stated it was uncertain whether he would ever regain consciousness.