Group H of the FIFA Club World Cup (CWC) is still wide open after Salzburg and Al Hilal played out a goalless draw in Washington, DC. The stalemate ended the Red Bulls’ 16-match scoring streak.

The Saudi side dominated the first half, yet still owed their thanks to goalkeeper Yassine Bounou for preserving parity. Frans Kratzig's floated cross found striker Karim Onisiwo, but Bounou reacted brilliantly to tip the ball over the bar.

Simone Inzaghi’s team regrouped, and although they dominated the match, they struggled to test the Salzburg goalkeeper.

Their best opportunity came after 21 minutes, when Salem Al Dawsari’s cross was met by Sergej Milinković-Savić; however, his header was blocked by Jacob Rasmussen, who then thwarted Marcos Leonardo’s rebound.

Salzburg recycled a corner to great effect, but Bounou was on hand to deny John Mellberg at close range before Kalidou Koulibaly cleared Dorgeles Nene’s rebound off the line.

Al Hilal then regained their composure and came close through Cancelo, whose powerful shot was tipped away to safety, followed by Malcom's deflected shot going wide.

By the cooling break, Salzburg were the side looking full of energy, and their confidence continued to grow once play resumed, with Yorbe Vertessen firing wide.

Despite their efforts, Salzburg ultimately found no way past Bounou, and the draw ended their three-match winning streak, denying them the chance to secure a place in the last 16.

They face Real Madrid on matchday three and will need a win to guarantee progression. Meanwhile, Al Hilal must also win against Pachuca if they are to qualify, despite extending their unbeaten run to seven matches.