Croatia held to goalless draw by Morocco

Croatia, runners-up at the last World Cup, were held to a 0-0 draw by Morocco on Wednesday in their opening Group F match at the Al Bayt Stadium in Qatar.

It's the third goalless draw in nine games at the tournament so far.

The Croats, beaten by France in the 2018 final in Moscow, had the better of the chances, with Dejan Lovren having an effort cleared off the line and Nikola Vlasic's close shot saved by the legs of Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.

Morocco striker Youssef En-Nesryi might have given the North Africans an early lead but was unable to get a decent touch onto Hakim Ziyech's dangerous cross.

In the second half, Achraf Hakimi's powerful free kick was parried by Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic.

Belgium and Canada play at 11:00 pm UAE time in Wednesday's other Group F match at Al Rayyan.

Meanwhile, Croatia will now turn their attentions to their game against Canada on Sunday, when Morocco will face Belgium.