Belgium switch training to LA Galaxy base after poor pitch before Spain quarter-final | OneFootball

Belgium abandoned their scheduled session at LMU because of a poor pitch and relocated to LA Galaxy’s base in Carson, 48 hours before their World Cup quarter-final against Spain on Friday, 21:00, in Los Angeles.

According to L'Équipe, the surface at the Jesuit-run LMU campus near the international airport and SoFi Stadium had deteriorated after heavy use and recent heat, and was deemed a risk to players.

Belgium requested and received FIFA permission to switch to Dignity Health Sports Park, around 35 km south of downtown Los Angeles. The closed training took place later than planned because of the journey.

The Red Devils had largely kept their routine in Seattle during their first five matches, so this represented a minor disruption.

Fatigue affected some players, including captain Youri Tielemans, Timothy Castagne and Leandro Trossard, whose workload was eased. Kevin De Bruyne, an unused substitute in the 4-1 win over the United States in the last 16, has regained strength and is feeling better medically.

All options remain open for the starting XI to face Spain. The staff will decide after the final session, depending on freshness.

Source: L'Équipe