DPA/Madrid
Spanish football has reacted to the cancellation of yesterday’s friendly international away to Belgium - because of security fears following Friday’s deadly attacks in Paris - with understanding and solidarity, but also with disappointment.
Belgium’s friendly with Spain yesterday in Brussels has been called off because of security fears following the deadly attacks in Paris.
A total of 129 people were killed in the Paris attacks, which included the targeting of France’s friendly against Germany at the Stade de France.
French prosecutors have identified a Belgian as the attacks’ mastermind. Belgium raised the terror threat level to three Monday, indicating a serious threat.
The Belgian football association said it had taken the decision to cancel the game, set to be played at the King Baudouin Stadium in the Belgian capital, following consultation with its Spanish counterparts.
“Taking into account the exceptional circumstances, we cannot take any security risk to our players and fans,” the Belgian association said.
“We deeply regret the late decision to cancel the match and we completely understand the disappointment of many supporters”.
The Spain squad flew into Brussels Monday, amid massive security precautions, and flew out again for Madrid early yesterday after being told of the cancellation.
Spain coach Vicente del Bosque, in an improvised press conference on the airplane, said: “We assume that there must be strong reasons to cancel the match. It is a question of security.
“The players wanted to play. There were no problems in the hotel, and we have not been afraid, but we have decided to leave as soon as possible.
“The Belgian government is unable to guarantee the safety of the spectators and players. Let’s hope there are no more postponements. Nobody likes this because we are here to play sport and entertain people.”
When asked Monday whether Euro 2016 should be staged in France, Del Bosque said: “I would like it to be played in France. I think that changing (the host country) would be giving the terrorists what they want.”
Meanwhile, Spain striker Juan Mata said: “We are footballers but also part of society, and these things affect us the same as they affect everybody. No ideas should be more important that human life.
“We are still in a state of shock. Unfortunately, these things seem to be happening more and more frequently.”
The reaction in the Spanish media to the cancellation of the match has been one of disappointment but also understanding.
Sports daily AS commented: “It is a pity but it is understandable, in the circumstances. There are obviously more important things in this world than football matches.”
Meanwhile, radio station Cadena COPE said: “It would have been great for the match to go ahead, in order to show the world our courage and solidarity.
“But if the Belgian authorities cannot guarantee the security of the fans and players, then clearly the game cannot be played.”
Spain coach Vicente del Bosque.
