FRANCE FAIL TO BEAT TEN MAN URUGUAY

France were unable to take an advantage in Group A as they failed to beat ten man Uruguay in their opening game of the tournament.

The uninspiring fixture, described as "truly awful" by a BBC match report, saw second half Uruguay substitute Lodeiro given his marching orders for a disgraceful tackle on Bacary Sagna.

France came close to scoring early on but Sidney Govou was unable to direct Franck Ribery's cross towards goal.

Diego Forlan carved out Uruguay's best chance of the match but the Atletico Madrid striker was unable to beat French 'keeper Hugo Lloris.