Z is for zero

Goalless games are usually tagged 'bore draws', but in England's history they have been quite significant - and anything but boring.

In England's first friendly international in 1872, the final score was 0-0 against Scotland.

The next significant stalemate in the Three Lions' history came in the opening game of the 1966 World Cup against Uruguay at Wembley.

Although the result was disappointing, the clean sheet set the tone for the tournament, with England's rearguard defending resolutely, conceding only three goals en route to glory.

In 1982, England were eliminated from the World Cup in Spain, despite not losing a game. Two goalless draws in the second round against West Germany and the hosts resulted in the Germans progressing due to their defeat of Spain.

This was the first and only time a structure like this was employed by FIFA.

In 1997 and 2003, stalemates against Italy and Turkey ensured happier outcomes for the Three Lions as they qualified for major tournaments on the back of those results.

In Rome, an heroic performance by Glenn Hoddle's team clinched the point they needed to guarantee qualification for France '98.

The intimidating atmosphere of Turkey didn't faze Sven-Goran Eriksson's side, who kept their heads despite fierce provocation from the hosts.

And the 0-0 draw was good enough to send them to Portugal for Euro 2004 - ahead of the Turks.

The most recent 0-0 in England's history came in March this year, when Steve McClaren's side drew with Israel in Tel-Aviv in a European Championship qualifier.