An injury time goal from Giroud in the Calderón stadium saved a point for France and brought Spain's World Cup campaign back to Earth. "La Selección" had not failed to win a major tournament qualifying match since September 2007, and midway through the first half they took the lead after Sergio Ramos headed Xavi's corner against the post, Pedro turning the ball back in to the area and Lloris only pushing the cross in to the path of the surprised Ramos for him to score. Up to that point France had only looked to defend, but soon afterwards Benzema brought a good save out of his Real Madrid team mate Casillas, and Menez had a goal ruled out for a questionable offside after he headed Benzema's headed cross in to the net on the far post. With the first half coming to a close Spain were awarded a penalty after a rash tackle by Koscielny on Pedro, but Lloris kept out Cesc's spot kick, and then made further saves from Pedro and Cesc before the break. After the restart however the better chances fell to the visitors, and Casillas and his defence were called upon to make a string of saves. It seemed though that they were going to hold on until the very last minute, when Juanfran lost the ball in midfield, and Ribéry crossed in for Giroud to stick his head out and score the equaliser. Probably a fair result in the end, but Spain now need a draw at least in France in the return leg in March if they are to make it through to the finals without having to go through a tricky play-off round. (16.10.12)