Group G rivals Austria and Russia have played out a goalless first half in their crucial Euro 2016 qualifier in Vienna.

The visitors came close to breaking the deadlock with 15 minutes played, but Alexander Kokorin's effort from the edge of the box rattled the post.

Russia threatened again just a minute later when Denis Cheryshev fired off target following a slick move, while Austria's first meaningful opening arrived on 26 minutes as Martin Harnik's low drive was kept out by Igor Akinfeev.

The away side continued to look the more likely to score during the remainder of a cagey first half, but they were unable to land the vital blow.