France rally to get past Belarus
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E-mail Xinhua, September 11, 2013
France twice came from behind to beat Belarus 4-2 in a European zone World Cup qualifier Tuesday night in Gomel, Belarus.
Franck Ribery netted a brace as France recorded their first win in six matches and draw level with Spain at the top of Group I, albeit having played a game more than the world champions.
France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris saw Egor Filipenko headed Belarus in front on 32 minutes before Ribery responded with a penalty just after half-time.
After Lloris allowed the hosts to move back in front through Timofei Kalachev, a second Ribery strike plus goals from Samir Nasri and Paul Pogba steered France to a much-needed victory.
France moved onto 14 points from seven matches, level with Spain, who were not in qualifying action on Tuesday, as Les Bleus guaranteed themselves second-place in the group and a potential play-off berth.
During the next round of the group, France will play Finland and Belarus will meet Spain.
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