EURO 2016: Latvia held to goaless draw against Kazakhstan

Latvia was held to a goal less draw in Kazakhstan last night as it kick started its qualification campaign for the EURO 2016 championships.

The Kazakh team controlled the ball for the majority of the game, but the Latvian team had several chances on counter attacks, including a shot from point blank range by Vladislavs Gabovs in the 68th minute, saved by Kazakhstan's goalkeeper, and Andrejs Kovalovs. Kovalovs hit the goalpost three minutes later.

The match was largely a quiet affair with both teams attempting only three shots on goal between them during the match. The Latvian team were also given three yellow cards during the game. 

Latvia is ranked 100th in the FIFA rankings, while Kazakhstan is ranked 131st.

Latvia has been banded together with the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Turkey, Iceland and Kazakhstan.

The countries next two qualifiers will be against Iceland and Turkey in October.

The top two teams in each of the eight qualification groups will automatically qualify for EURO 2016, while the third place finishes will play in a special play-off stage for the final four spots in the tournament.