FIFA World Cup 2022: Morocco hold 2018 finalists Croatia

DOHA: Croatia's World Cup campaign got off to a stuttering start with a 0-0 draw against a battling Morocco on Wednesday.

Chances were at a premium at Al Bayt Stadium as an even Group F contest produced little goalmouth action, and ended in the third goalless draw in nine games at the World Cup so far.

There were glimpses of goal for both sides, with Nikola Vlasic going close for Croatia at the end of the first half while Noussair Mazraoui had a header saved for Morocco.

Croatia, who were beaten by France in the final four years ago, will now turn their attentions to their game against Canada on Sunday, when Morocco will face Belgium.

Croatia's best moments predictably hinged on Luka Modric, who was given the freedom of the park, floating effortlessly from back to front, with football's traditional midfield roles seeming not to apply to Croatia's captain.

One minute he was patrolling in front of his back four, the next hanging off the shoulder of Andrej Kramaric up front, but always looking to open up the north Africans, whether he was hovering at right back or hunting further forward.

Yet this Croatia performance lacked the cut and thrust of the team four years ago, which also boasted the talents of the now-retired Mario Mandzukic up front and midfielder Ivan Rakitic, who has called time on his international career.

Morocco looked principally to Hakim Ziyech for inspiration and the Chelsea winger, recalled to the squad following coach Walid Regragui's appointment, was their most dangerous attacking outlet in the early stages, although his good work lacked an end product.

The two sides will likely be happy with a point from a match in which there really was nothing to separate them, with both having seven attempts at goal and just two on target. Agencies

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