Belgium-Spain match cancelled as terror threat level raised

Belgium's football friendly against Spain on Tuesday night has been cancelled, with authorities increasing the terror threat level from 2 to 3 for the whole country.

The Coordinating Body for Threat Analysis (OCAM) had already increased the threat level to 3 for large-scale public gatherings such as sports fixtures and concerts. That level has now been extended to all areas.

There will be a reinforced police presence in parts of the country with a high population density and at big events, the interior ministry said in a statement.

The ministry's crisis center added: "In this context, we recommend the cancellation of a football match planned on Tuesday evening between Belgium and Spain."

Other big events may still go ahead, but organisers must make prior contact with the interior ministry to assess the risk, the statement added.

Belgium were due to play Spain at the King Baudouin stadium, with an estimated 50,000 crowd. Some 600 police officers and army officers were expected to patrol the event.

The Belgian football union said in a statement: "We deeply regret that a friendly match has been cancelled at such short notice and we understand supporters' disappointment. However, we cannot take any risks when it comes to the safety of our players or supporters."

The Red Devils will continue to lead the Fifa rankings if Argentina does not win on Tuesday against Colombia.

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