Germany, Argentina goalless at half time

BERLIN, June 30 (Reuters) Germany and Argentina were drawing 0-0 at half time in their World Cup quarter-final in Berlin's Olympiastadion today.

Fired up by a chorus of noise from the home crowd, Germany's best chance came in the 16th minute. Bernd Schneider set up Michael Ballack with an inviting cross but the captain's powerful close-range header went just wide.

A Lukas Podolski free kick from 25 metres earlier in the half was gathered by Argentina goalkeeper Roberto Abbondanzieri only at the second attempt.

Argentina showed great skill in some patient build-up play, often involving striker Carlos Tevez, a surprise choice in the the starting line-up in place of Javier Saviola. But the South Americans failed to produce clear-cut chances.

Reuters HS RS2209