SARANSK, Russia, June 28 (Xinhua) -- Yassine Meriah struck an own goal as Panama led Tunisia 1-0 at halftime of their World Cup Group G match here on Thursday.

Tunisia looked the better team early but Naim Sliti and Fakhreddine Ben Youssef both spurned chances to put their team ahead.

Panama scored against the run of play just after the half-hour mark when Jose Luis Rodriguez's long-range shot deflected off Meriah, giving goalkeeper Aymen Mathlouthi no chance.

The North African side continued to surge forward in numbers and Panama had captain Roman Torres to thank when he booted clear Wahbi Khazri's second effort after his initial attempt was blocked by goalkeeper Jaime Penedo.

Both teams are playing for pride, having already been eliminated. Panama are seeking their maiden win in a World Cup finals match while Tunisia are vying for their first victory since the 1978 tournament in Argentina. Enditem