Germans, Portuguese goalless at half-time

Three-time champions Germany and Portugal were locked goalless at half time in their opening Euro 2012 Group B match here.

Germany coach Joachim Loew sprang a surprise by leaving out experienced centre-back Per Mertesacker as well as veteran striker Miroslav Klose while Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo was leading the line for the Portuguese, the 2004 finalists.

Another Madrid man, defender Pepe, almost gave the Portuguese the lead moments before the break but his effort hit the bar and bounced down on the line.