France, Uruguay scoreless in 2nd half of World Cup match as play turns defensive

France, Uruguay still 0-0 well into 2nd half

CAPE TOWN, South Africa — France and Uruguay are locked at 0-0 in the second half of their World Cup match, a tight, defensive match with few scoring chances.

Uruguay closed down space on French attackers Franck Ribery and Nicolas Anelka but the South American team couldn’t mount much offense itself.

France wasted by far the best opportunity before half, with Sidney Govou side-footing wide from four yards when he should have scored.

Yoann Gourcuff also went close for France with a curling free kick from wide on the left flank that was saved by goalkeeper Fernando Muslera.

France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris did well to block a shot by Diego Forlan after the striker smartly turned Bacary Sagna in the 16th minute. That was Uruguay’s only chance.