International friendly: USA 0 Canada 0

The United States were held to a 0-0 draw by Canada in an international friendly on Tuesday as they prepare to resume World Cup qualifying.

Canada were looking to bounce back from a 4-0 defeat to Denmark last weekend and they had the best of the early stages at BBVA Compass Stadium.

Dwayne De Rosario fired an early warning shot for the visitors in Houston, his effort stinging the palms of USA goalkeeper Sean Johnson.

US coach Jurgen Klinsmann chose to bring in several young faces for this game, with five players making their international debuts.

However, they struggled to impose themselves on a contest which became scrappy.

The hosts did almost break the deadlock in the second half, but Omar Gonzalez headed over the bar from close range.

The US will face Honduras in the first game of the final stage of CONCACAF qualifying next Wednesday, and Klinsmann will be looking for an improved showing from his charges.

Canada meanwhile have to wait until March for a competitive international after crashing out of qualifying to reach the FIFA World Cup in Brazil next year.