Mexico have best of lively first half against France, but sides level at 0-0 in Group A match

France and Mexico level at 0-0 at halftime

POLOKWANE, South Africa — Mexico had the best of a lively first half against France but the sides were level at 0-0 in a World Cup match on Thursday.

Mexico’s speedy attack caused France problems as both sides looked to win after each tied their opening game.

Three Mexican forwards ran clear in the eighth but Carlos Vela’s left-foot shot was high.

Carlos Salcido’s long pass found Guillermo Franco, but his curled shot went over.

Salcido twice exploited gaps on France’s right but fired a 20-yard shot wide, and made goalkeeper Hugo Lloris make a save in the 27th.

Vela injured his right thigh in a tackle and was replaced in the 31st.

France made little use of several set pieces, though Franck Ribery flashed a right-foot shot across the goalmouth.