South Africa were left frustrated in their final preparation match before the FIFA World Cup after being held to a goalless draw by Nicaragua in Orlando.
Bafana Bafana controlled large periods of possession throughout the encounter, with Themba Zwane dictating play in midfield as South Africa attempted to break down a compact and disciplined Nicaragua defence.
Wide attackers Tshepang Moremi and Kamogelo Sebelebele showed flashes of danger, but clear opportunities remained limited during the opening stages.
The best chance of the first half arrived late when Sebelebele won a penalty after being brought down inside the box. However, Lyle Foster struck the resulting spot-kick against the post to leave the match scoreless at the interval.
After the break, head coach Hugo Broos introduced several attacking substitutions in an attempt to increase intensity in the final third.
Relebohile Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis, Thapelo Maseko and Iqraam Rayners all entered the match as South Africa pushed for a breakthrough.
The substitutions added urgency, but Nicaragua continued defending deep and in numbers. Maseko came closest midway through the second half with a powerful effort from the right side that forced a strong save.
Late drama followed when Sebelebele again caused problems in the penalty area and earned South Africa a second penalty. Yet Foster was once more denied by the woodwork as Nicaragua escaped with the draw.
Goalkeeper Adonis Pineda also played a crucial role for Nicaragua, producing several important saves late in the game to frustrate the South Africans further.
Despite dominating possession and creating the better chances, Bafana Bafana were unable to find the decisive goal, leaving Broos with both positives and concerns ahead of the World Cup.
