Schalke 04 have ended a frustrating first half against APOEL as neither side have managed to find the back of the net before the half-time whistle in their Europa League match.

The German side had an early chance to break the deadlock when he latched on to the delivery from a corner, but his header was denied by the goalkeeper.

Minutes later, Maxim Choupo-Moting tried a header of his own, but it was comfortably saved by Boy Waterman, although the hosts continued to pile on the pressure.

Waterman was called up once again as Choupo-Moting fired a low drive from the edge of the box, but the shot-stopper blocked the effort.

Schalke came again as Leon Goretzka rose above his markers to direct a header towards the right post, but once again, Waterman made a crucial save.

Leroy Sane joined the attack as the half went on, but one particular effort soared into the stands, adding to Schalke's frustration.

APOEL managed to find some rhythm towards the end of the half, but Kostas Charalambidis wasted a chance as his shot from the edge of the area just scraped the crossbar.

Schalke will qualify for the last 32 if they win this evening.