World Cup final goalless at half-time

Spain and Holland were tied at 0-0 at half-time in the World Cup final after a cagey opening 45 minutes featuring five yellow cards.

The Spanish dominated initially but neither side was able to build up much momentum as a string of late challenges kept English referee Howard Webb busy.

Nelson Mandela’s beaming pre-match appearance ensured the only glum face at Soccer City belonged to Fernando Torres, the Liverpool striker who was consigned once more to the bench as Spain opted to keep David Villa in a central striking role.

It was right-back Sergio Ramos who was first to threaten the Dutch goal when he headed Xavi’s freekick from the right goalwards, forcing Maarten Stekelenburg into a fine stop.

The Dutch had an early half-chance after a mistake by Sergio Busquets allowed Dirk Kuyt a free shot at goal but the Liverpool forward’s effort from 25 yards was easily dealt with by Iker Casillas.

Ramos threatened again when he went past Kuyt inside the box and drilled a shot across the goalmouth that John Heitinga was somewhat fortunate to deflect over his own bar from inside the six-yard box.

Villa then struck a back-post volley into the side netting as the European champions attempted to press home their advantage.

Their rhythm, though, was disrupted as the match took a turn after quarter of an hour, shattering any hopes Webb may have had of a quiet evening policing an encounter between two polished, passing sides.

The English official was obliged to book Robin van Persie, Carles Puyol, Mark van Bommel and Ramos in the space of ten minutes, and the fifth yellow card might easily have been a straight red after Nigel de Jong’s reckless high challenge resulted in him planting his studs into Xabi Alonso’s chest.

Arjen Robben forced Casillas into his first significant save in stoppage time at the end of the half, forcing the Real Madrid ‘keeper to get down smartly at his near post.