World Cup 2018: Czech Republic 0-0 Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland striker Kyle Lafferty competes against Michal Kadlec of the Czech Republic

Northern Ireland picked up a rather fortunate point as they started their World Cup qualifying campaign with a dreary draw away to the Czech Republic.

In their first match since reaching the knockout stage at Euro 2016, Michael O'Neill's men managed just one shot on target in a half-empty arena in Prague.

The Czech Republic should have taken the lead on 62 minutes but defender Filip Novac shot wide from six yards.

NI's best moment was a Paddy McNair shot saved by Tomas Vaclik.

Normally, an away point would be seen as a decent outcome, but O'Neill will feel this was an opportunity missed against an unimpressive Czech side regarded as being in transition.

Northern Ireland, who memorably beat Ukraine and made it out of their group in the Euro finals in France, never got into their stride in a Group C game riddled with mistakes and poor passing.

More to follow.