Stalemate between Scotland and Serbia

Scotland and Serbia had to settle for a point apiece in their opening FIFA World Cup qualifier after a goalless draw at Hampden Park.

Belgium and Croatia set the tone in Group A with victories against Wales and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia respectively on Friday night, but neither side was able to keep pace in Glasgow. Though both teams had chances late on, goalkeepers Allan McGregor and Vladimir Stojković stood firm to ensure honours finished even.

Aleksandar Kolarov came closest to registering for the visitors in the first half, but McGregor was up to the task and kept out his free-kick. For the hosts, Robert Snodgrass had the best opportunity of a cautious opening period, his low shot turned behind by Stojković.

Kenny Miller, playing up front on his own for Craig Levein's charges, was forced to feed off only half-chances either side of half-time. There continued to be little to choose between the teams after the interval, with Kolarov again threatening McGregor's goal.

Miller, though, then had two presentable chances to break the deadlock. The first was blocked by Stojković, but he had no excuse when gifted a free header at close range soon after.

Scotland would have been made to pay for those missed opportunities had it not been for McGregor's splendid late save to thwart Serbian No10 Dušan Tadić. There was almost a twist in added time, but James Forrest scuffed his shot into the arms of Stojković.

Next up for Scotland on Tuesday are FYROM at home, with Serbia hosting Chris Coleman's Wales the same day.