DOHA: Aggressive Moroccan side held the 2018 FIFA World Cup runner-ups struggling for a breakthrough, as the opening Group F fixture ended in a goalless draw, the third in less than 24 hours, here at Al-Bayt Stadium on Thursday. 

The see-saw battle between the two sides witnessed an enthralling display of defence as there were only attempts on target, two by each team but no strike.

Morocco proved to be an enormous challenge for Luka Modric’s side as they lost just two games of their last 41 games in three years while Croatia extended their own unbeaten run to seven after this match.

The only opportunity to take a lead for Morocco arose in the 51st minute when Soufiane Boufal’s long-range shot was blocked by Dejan Lovren.

Modric and Ivan Perisic also came close to netting the ball in the first half but send their efforts to the crossbar.

With the draw in the first game, Belgium and Canada now have a chance to take lead in Group F as they face each other later today.

Croatia will next play Canada on Sunday while Croatia will take on Belgium earlier on the same day.