BRUSSELS: Belgium’s friendly with Spain on Tuesday in Brussels has been called off because of security fears after the terrorist attacks in Paris.
A total of 129 people were killed in the attacks on Friday, which included the targeting of France’s friendly with Germany at the Stade de France.
French prosecutors have identified a Belgian from Molenbeek as a possible mastermind behind the attacks and raids were carried out by police and security officers throughout the the Brussels suburb yesterday.
Belgium’s government raised the terror threat level to three on Monday, indicating a serious threat
The Belgian FA said it had taken the decision to cancel the game, set to be played at the King Baudouin Stadium in the Belgian capital, after consultation with its Spanish counterparts.
“Taking into account the exceptional circumstances, we cannot take any security risk to our players and fans,” the Belgian FA said. It added it “deeply regretted” the late decision to cancel the match and “understands the disappointment of many supporters”.
Police have named Brussels-born Salah Abdeslam, 26, as a key suspect. A huge manhunt is under way for surviving members and accomplices of the group responsible for the killings.
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