The first half between Brazil and England has ended goalless, despite the home side having the better chances at the Maracana.

The match started at a leisurely pace, with the first real chance coming after 21 minutes.

It was Neymar who had sight on goal after bringing the ball down brilliantly from Dani Alves's pass and cutting inside, but Joe Hart came to England's rescue, diving at the striker's feet to deny him.

The 21-year-old starlet then had a dip from just outside the area that whistled past Hart's left-hand post.

Brazil threatened once more just after the half-hour mark, but once again Hart kept his sheet clean. He first denied Hulk, who looked certain to score, before denying Felipe Luis on the rebound.

Another dangerous situation saw Oscar slide the ball across the face of the goal, but Glen Johnson was on hand to nudge it away as yellow shirts flooded the box.

England's best chance fell to Theo Walcott towards the end of the half. The Arsenal winger was slipped through by Johnson, but Julio Cesar was alert to make the save, although it was straight down his throat.

Roy Hodgson will be the happier coach at half time, but his side must improve if they are to win the game.