“We are very disappointed to have to make this decision, but we are doing it in the interest of our players,” said the New Zealand Football Association CEO of the forfeit.
“In the circumstances it is impossible to get enough players to come to Belgium and then deliver them back to their clubs on time without neglecting their club obligations.”
Belgium will now spar against Ivory Coast, number 60 in the FIFA ranking. “That is a strong team with players of the highest level, who are currently performing well, such as Wilfried Zaha (Crystal Palace) and Nicolas Pépé (Arsenal).”
“It is also the perfect sparring partner for our first international period, in which we play 3 games. Hopefully there is also a chance to let some fans in. That is something we are all looking forward to.”
Belgium only played once against Ivory Coast. In 2014 it became 2-2 in a friendly match in Brussels, with Belgian goals from Fellaini and Nainggolan.
–
