Lacklustre France failed to turn their superior possession into chances and could ultimately pay a heavy price as they were held to a 0 - 0 draw by Uruguay in an uninspired World Cup Group A clash this morning.

After South Africa and Mexico drew 1 - 1 in the tournament curtain raiser in Johannesburg all four teams have a point each in what always looked like an intriguing group.

It was not quite a repeat of France's 2002 horror show when, as holders, they lost 1 - 0 to Senegal en route to a first round exit but the draw leaves the 2006 runners-up with plenty to do.

Uruguay finished the match with 10 men after substitute Nicolas Lodeiro picked up a second booking in the 81st minute.

Africa's first World Cup opened with a pulsating 1 - 1 draw between South Africa and Mexico as a late goal deprived the hosts of victory in Soweto, Johannesburg, in front of more than 84 000 passionate fans at the magnificent Soccer City.

Meanwhile, the United States team bus was delayed on its way to a training session by a hungry elephant snacking on a tree on Friday.

The elephant moved to the side of the road after a few minutes and the bus continued to the Royal Bafokeng Stadium.

It was the second interruption because of an elephant for the US players.

In the last match of the first day tonight, at 11:30pm Korea take on Greece.