Chile hit back to hold France

France extended their unbeaten run to 11 games but had to settle for a draw against Chile after Nicolás Córdova's 73rd-minute equaliser.

The UEFA EURO 2012 qualifying Group D leaders had taken a first-half lead in Montpellier through Loïc Rémy. However, Chile were determined opponents in what proved to be a lively friendly and hit back through substitute Córdova to earn a share of the spoils.

Fresh from making the Copa América quarter-finals, Chile were the more dynamic side in the early stages, with midfielder Jorge Valdivia particularly influential. The first opportunity, though, fell to the hosts with Marvin Martin – who scored twice on debut against Ukraine two months ago – firing over after a quarter of an hour.

The incident enlivened Les Bleus and they were ahead four minutes later when Karim Benzema's inviting cross from the left allowed Rémy to place a diving header to goalkeeper Claudio Bravo's right. FC Barcelona summer signing Alexis Sánchez was introduced for the visitors after the break, but it was Real Madrid CF's Benzema who next came closest to scoring – only to be twice denied by Bravo – before Rémy's cute back-flick hit the crossbar.

Chile were always a menace, though, and after striking a post a moment earlier, Córdova levelled from inside the box. France resume their Group D qualifiers against Albania and Romania at the beginning of next month.