It has finished all square between France and England in their Euro 2012 Group D opener in Donetsk.

Both teams started solidly and seemed to settle into a rhythm from the kick-off, but the first half-chance falling to Samir Nasri.

The Manchester City star found himself with a yard of space on the edge of the area, but dragged a right-footed shot wide of Joe Hart's post.

Roy Hodgson's men began to impose themselves on the game and nearly took the lead through James Milner.

Ashley Young had space to run at the French defence and carved them open with an incisive through-ball. Milner ran through on goal and rounded Hugo Lloris, but could not wrap his weaker left foot around the ball and shot wide of the empty net.

England's breakthrough came when Patrice Evra conceded a free kick in his own half and Steven Gerrard stepped up to launch the ball into the area.

Alou Diarra misjudged the flight of the ball, which allowed Joleon Lescott to power a header past Lloris from close range.

Diarra nearly levelled the score moments later, but his header was well-saved by Hart and he could not direct the rebound on target.

Nasri equalised after some neat passing from Patrice Evra and Franck Ribery presented the ball at his feet on the edge of the area. He clipped a right-footed shot, which beat Hart at his near post as Gerrard charged to close the ball down.

The second half was fairly even, with both teams enjoying possession in the early sparring. However, it was France who began to dominate the ball as the half wore on.

Karim Benzema fizzed a venomous shot at Joe Hart from long range, but the England keeper dealt with it well.

Danny Welbeck was finding himself somewhat isolated in attack for England as France pressed for a winner.

Benzema tested Hart from long range again in the dying seconds, but once again Hart was equal to the effort.

Despite some last-man interceptions, Laurent Blanc's men failed to create a clear-cut chance and England held on for the draw.