Egypt-Russia fail to produce sparks at halftime

Mohammed Salah regained fitness and returned to Egypt's starting lineup but failed to produce a spark and Egypt and Russia remained deadlocked 0-0 at the end of the first half

Mahmoud Trezeguet reacts after missing the target by inches.

Mohammed Salah regained fitness and returned to Egypt's starting lineup but failed to produce a spark and Egypt and Russia remained deadlocked 0-0 at the end of the first half in their Group A clash at St. Petersburg on Tuesday.

Egypt earned a couple of corners in quick succession in the 15th minute to raise the tempo but the goal remained elusive.

As the match happened

In the 16th minute, Mahmoud Trezeguet sent a a lovely curling attempt however the ball drifted agonisingly wide of the post. 

Russia upped the ante soon but an agile Egyptian defence thwarted all attempts.

Minutes before halftime, Salah twisted and turned in the box to unleash a beautiful strike but the ball missed the target, much to the agony of the bench.