England Under-21s have dropped their first qualifying points in two years by playing out a goalless draw against Bosnia-Herzegovina Under-21s in Sarajevo.
Gareth Southgate's team also ended the match with just 10 men after defender Jack Stephens was sent off late into the second half.
It was a quiet start to the game, with few chances coming at either end - the best of which came from the hosts as Haris Hajradinovic sent a shot at goal, which was fumbled by Jordan Pickford.
The Young Lions managed to survive as Lewis Baker came close to opening the scoring in the eighth minute when he rose in the box to head towards goal, but his effort went straight into the hands of the goalkeeper.
There was a big lull in the match as England struggled to string passes together due to the bobbly pitch, while Bosnia were solid and disciplined, frustrating their opponents.
Calum Chambers had a decent opportunity before the half-time whistle when he connected with James Ward-Prowse's delivery, but his header fired over the bar.
England ended the half having dominated possession, but Bosnia were on top at the start of the second half as Armin Cerimagic's shot flew just over the bar.
Dominic Iorfa had some joy down the flanks for the Young Lions and one particular cross found its way into the box, with the ball bouncing awkwardly, but keeper Kenan Piric managed to save.
Ward-Prowse tried to break the deadlock in the 67th minute with a curling 20-yard effort, but he missed the target, and the frustration continued for England as Stephens was sent off for a second yellow card five minutes later.
The young defender, who was making his debut, became the first England U21 player since Andre Wisdom in 2013 to be given his marching orders after fouling Cerimagic.
The home side tried to take advantage of their opponents being a man down as Cerimagic managed to pull the ball back into the box in a dangerous position, but none of his teammates was there to latch on to the ball.
It was a feisty end to the match, but neither side could get that all-important goal in Group 9.
Danielle Joynson
Spain U21s
