2010 World Cup Spain v Switzerland half time report
The European champions Spain failed to break down a resilient Switzerland defence as the first half ended 0-0 in Durban.
Chances were limited, something of a trend so far at this World Cup.
The best chance of the half came from Gerard Piqué after a great ball from Andrés Iniesta unlocked the Swiss. Piqué turned his marker but shot straight at the goalkeeper Diego Benaglio.
Spain had a lot of the possession, as expected, with Xabi Alonso at the heart of the midfield dictating play. The Spanish were camped inside Switzerland’s half for the majority of the 45 minutes.
There was a half-hearted penalty appeal, when Phillipe Senderos fouled David Silva in the 15th minute.
Switzerland created little, a Reto Ziegler free kick the best they had to offer which was driven straight at Iker Casillas.
Stephen Grichting was booked for a foul on Iniesta on the edge of the box and was lucky not to see red.
Other than that, hardly anything happened, although a disappointed Senderos had to come off for the Swiss through injury after colliding with his own player.
A cagey first half from Spain, something that was not expected.
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