Paraguay, New Zealand tied at 0-0 at halftime of last World Cup Group F match

Paraguay, New Zealand tied 0-0 at halftime

POLOKWANE, South Africa — Paraguay and New Zealand created few scoring chances and were tied at 0-0 after the first half of their last Group F game at the World Cup.

Paraguay dominated early possession but couldn’t challenge the net against a fierce New Zealand defense.

The first real scoring chance came from New Zealand striker Shane Smeltz, who moved in from the left wing before shooting wide in the 4th minute.

Paraguay had several attempts from outside the area, but defender Denis Canize shot wide twice, while New Zealand goalkeeper Mark Paston saved a low shot from striker Nelson Valdez.

Paraguay leads the group and only needs a draw to advance, while New Zealand must win to guarantee it moves on.