An unstoppable free kick from Diego earned Reims a 1-1 draw and stopped Nantes climbing to third in Ligue 1.

David Ngog came close to handing Reims an early lead after latching onto a loose ball inside the box, but Remy Riou reacted impressively to get a strong hand on the former Liverpool striker's effort.

The lead belonged to Nantes in the 13th minute when a Jordan Veretout free kick reached Johan Audel, who drilled home from just inside the box.

In a first half during which both sides enjoyed spells on top, Reims were unlucky not to level as Odair Fortes struck the post from a tight angle.

Audel threatened to double his side's advantage early in the second half as a swerving free kick required a vital save from Johny Placide.

Reims levelled the scores just before the hour mark through Diego, whose powerful free kick left Riou helpless.

It was Nantes who looked most likely to find a winner late on, but Reims held on to secure a point.