World Cup

[monks data]

World Cup | Qualifiers

Oct 16, 2012 at 8pm UK

Spain
1-1
France

France manager Didier Deschamps takes heart from late equaliser against Spain

By Liam Power, Reporter

Published: October 16 2012 | 23:31

Last updated: October 17 2012 | 13:10

Didier Deschamps believes that France's patience and belief allowed them to find a late equaliser against Spain in a thrilling World Cup qualifier at the Vicente Calderon.

Didier Deschamps has praised the patience and attacking intent of his France side after they secured a late point against Spain.

A 93rd-minute header from Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud made the final scoreline 1-1.

France rode their luck throughout and kept the scoreline close thanks to a missed penalty from Cesc Fabregas.

Deschamps told reporters that he thinks the point earned against the reigning world champions may prove crucial in the context of the group.

He said: "It was a very good second-half. We created a lot of opportunities, even if at times we looked for passes when we were in a position to strike.

"But there was much suffering from this Spain team in the second half. Seeing their journey and their results at home, we are happy to take a point. It rewards the group because it is not easy."

Giroud's goal ended Spain's 100% start to their World Cup qualification campaign and kept Les Blues unbeaten in their quest to book a place in the Brazilian showpiece in 2014.