Skip to main content

Traffic jam: Belgium-US scrimmage called off

  • Author:
  • Publish date:

SAO PAULO (AP) The scrimmage between the United States and Belgium has been canceled because Red Devils coach Marc Wilmots didn't want to get caught in one of Sao Paulo's famous traffic jams.

The closed-door session had been scheduled to take place Thursday at the Sao Paulo Futebol Clube, where the U.S. has been training for the World Cup since Monday. Belgium has been working out about 30 miles away in Mogi das Cruzes.

The U.S. Soccer Federation said Wednesday that Wilmots and American coach Jurgen Klinsmann spoke and called off the scrimmage.

Sao Paulo is known for traffic congestion, which was made worse by a subway strike that began last Thursday and was suspended Monday. While the strike was halted, the union says it could resume Thursday when Brazil hosts Croatia in the World Cup opener.

© 2024 ABG-SI LLC. SPORTS ILLUSTRATED IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF ABG-SI LLC. - All Rights Reserved. The content on this site is for entertainment and educational purposes only. All betting content is intended for an audience ages 21+. All advice, including picks and predictions, is based on individual commentators’ opinions and not that of Minute Media or its related brands. All picks and predictions are suggestions only. No one should expect to make money from the picks and predictions discussed on this website. For more information, please read our Legal Disclaimer. Gambling content intended for 21+. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER.