Macedonia have survived a first-half onslaught from Wales to enter the break at 0-0 in their World Cup qualifying match at the Cardiff City Stadium.

The hosts, missing the world's most expensive player, Gareth Bale, had six corners and five shots on target in the opening period, as well as seeing a strong penalty shout turned down.

Reading winger Hal Robson-Kanu appeared to be fouled inside the area following a surge into the box on the half-hour, but the referee was unmoved.

Makeshift right-back Neil Taylor was the first to test Macedonia goalkeeper Tome Pacovski, when he struck left-footed from outside of the box following a layoff from Hal Robson-Kanu.

That began a period of Welsh dominance which also saw Craig Bellamy call Pacovski into action with a powerful drive, moments after Simon Church headed wide at the near post.

Macedonia were also a threat on the break and had the best chance to break the deadlock when Nikolce Noveski rounded Wayne Hennessey, only to smash the ball over the crossbar.