Paraguay, New Zealand goalless at half-time

Leaders Paraguay and surprise packets New Zealand were drawing 0-0 at half-time in a lacklustre World Cup Group F match on Thursday with the South Americans requiring just a point to progress to the last 16.

The South Americans made three changes from the team that outclassed Slovakia four days ago with defenders Denis Caniza and Julio Cesar Caceres and striker Oscar Cardozo coming in.

New Zealand stood by the team that have drawn matches against Slovakia and defending champions Italy with Mark Paston retained as goalkeeper although first-choice Glen Moss has completed a four-match suspension.

A draw would suffice to take the South Americans through while New Zealand needed maximum points to be certain of what would be a miraculous last-16 spot for a team ranked 78 in the world.

Victor Caceres was cautioned by the Japanese referee for fouling Rory Fallon during scrappy early exchanges with rival players constantly moaning about the behaviour of their markers.

Captain Caniza proved an adventurous defender, coming forward twice to try his luck with shots that finished well off target, while a good Nelson Valdez run down the left flank was spoilt by a poor cross.

Goalmouth action was scarce in perfect, clear mid-afternoon conditions at Peter Mokaba Stadium during the last World Cup fixture at the purpose-built ground in the northern city.