Portugal, Ivory Coast scoreless after 60 minutes in Group G match

Portugal, Ivory Coast scoreless after 60 minutes

PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa — Portugal and Ivory Coast were scoreless after 60 minutes of their World Cup match, despite plenty of offensive attacks and tough tackling from both teams.

Ivory Coast had the best chances at the start of the second half, and forward Gervinho nearly ended the scoreless drought in the 47th minute when his shot from a close angle was deflected away by Portugal goalkeeper Eduardo.

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo rattled a 30-yard strike off the left post in the 11th minute to nearly put his team ahead. Ivory Coast’s best first-half chance came in the 17th minute when Cheick Tiote’s shot rose just over the crossbar.