Belgium’s friendly match with Spain on Tuesday in Brussels has been called off because of security fears following the deadly attacks in Paris.
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Friday’s terrorist attack in Paris, which killed at least 129 people created doubts about the possibility of next round of global games on as scheduled.
“The URBSFA (federation) was contacted by the government this evening and advised not to organise the Belgium-Spain match tomorrow evening”, it said in a statement late on Monday.
The search for suspects went past the French border and into Belgium, where authorities, officials and residents are on high alert.
The Belgian football union said in a statement: “We are very disappointed that a friendly match has been cancelled at such short notice and we understand supporters’ disappointment”.
“I would like the Euros to be played in France which is the chosen country and nothing should disturb the decisions to play in a country”, said Del Bosque.
France’s game against England at Wembley tonight will go ahead.
The Belgian Football Association have now confirmed the Red Devils will no longer be playing La Roja at Stade Roi Baudouin in Brussels. Now we leave the hotel, the players return to their clubs – it’s as simple as that.
“Some of us wanted to play this game…but well, given there are security reasons”, he told Spanish radio station Cadena Ser.
And the former Real Madrid boss maintained his stance despite Tuesday’s cancelled match, adding: “We’re here for sport and to entertain people”. He said nobody involved in the match liked it, but nothing could be done because “it was a matter of security”.
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Spain striker Alvaro Morata has tipped Belgium to challenge for next year’s European Championship in France.
