Ivory Coast and Portugal cancelled each other out in a match that was low on goals but high on energy. The game had a steady flow to it and despite willing from both sides attacks fell down against solid defences throughout.

Didier Drogba was a notable absentee from the Elephants’ starting line-up, the striker having been given permission to play with a protective cast on his fractured arm. Ivory Coast manager Sven Goran Eriksson decided not to risk him from the start but introduced the Chelsea striker from the bench in the second half.

The match had a lively opening, with both sides attacking with pace whenever they were in possession and it looked like there could be goals galore. The attacking intent was matched by a competitive edge and from the off the tackles had real bite.

Unfortunately, the organisation of both sides meant that few passes or crosses found their way into the box. Forced to try their luck from outside the box, Portugal came closest to taking an early lead.

The chance came from Ronaldo, who took aim from 25 yards and let fly a shot that had Boubacar Barry beaten but smacked off the face of the post. The Real Madrid star looked the most likely to make something happen but Ivory Coast were managing to keep him away from the danger areas.

After a goalless first half, the match continued in the same vein after the restart. Ivory Coast had the better of the possession but despite the running of Gervinho, Solomon Kalou and Aruna Dindane, they could not get in behind the Portuguese back line.

Drogba replaced Kalou in the 65th minute but could not do much to help the Elephants. The midfield battle was dominating the match and the game needed a goal to set it alight.

Portugal thought they had that goal in the 72nd minute but Ronaldo’s back post finish was ruled out for an earlier foul. Liedson has pushed his maker as the cross came over.

Bar a late chance that Drogba laid on, only to find no teammate attacking the space in the Portuguese box, the game settled down with neither side looking like they wanted to take risks. The later match between brazil and North Korea will give both the chance to take an early lead at the top of Group G.