Argentina have been held to a goalless draw in the first half of their World Cup encounter with Iran in Belo Horizonte.

Both sides enjoyed an even opening to the game, but it was Iran who nearly took the lead with just four minutes played when Jalal Hosseini headed narrowly wide following a free kick.

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However, the Argentines took control soon after as Gonzalo Higuain had an effort saved from close range before Angel di Maria shot high and wide from the edge of the box.

Argentina came close again on 21 minutes when Sergio Aguero was allowed to get a shot off inside the penalty area, only for goalkeeper Alireza Haghighi to push the ball away from danger.

The chances continued to fall the way of the dominant South Americans as Lionel Messi curled a free kick over the crossbar, while Ezequiel Garay somehow headed over from close range moments later after getting on the end of Messi's free kick.

A final opportunity of the half went in Iran's favour when Hosseini again rose highest from a delivery out side, though he could only head over on this occasion.