It ended all square at Olimpiyskiy, with Les Bleus fighting back to salvage a point after going down at the brink of half-time.
France were held to a 1-1 draw by Ukraine in their second World Cup qualifiers fixture on Saturday.
While not the most ideal result for them, France end the day with tightened grip at the top of Group D, with a healthy four-point lead over second-placed Finland.
The deadlock at the Olimpiyskiy did not break until very late in the first half. Ukraine drew first blood, with the hosts splitting open the defense of their illustrious visitors with the help of a lightning break. Mykola Shaparenko then produced a fine finish to ensure his side go into the break with the lead.
Five minutes into the second half, Anthony Martial got France back on level terms. The Manchester United man’s first goal for his nation in five years, though a scrappy effort, came in the time of need as it helped the defending champions to salvage a point.
Ukraine vs France Player Ratings
France: Lloris – 6, Dubois – 6, Zouma – 6, Kimpembe – 6, Digne – 6, Pogba – 7, Tchouameni – 7, Rabiot – 7, Griezmann – 6, Martial – 7, Coman – 6, Diaby – 6, Veretout – 6, Benzema – 6
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