Spain have lost ground on group rivals France after being held to a surprise draw by Finland in Gijon.

© AP Photos

The reigning World and European champions controlled possession throughout the first 45 minutes but failed to take the lead.

Santi Cazorla, David Villa and Cesc Fabregas all forced shots on target but were kept at bay by Niki Maenpaa.

Five minutes after the break Spain were ahead through Sergio Ramos, who headed an Andres Iniesta goal into the corner to mark his 100th cap with a goal.

Substitute Pedro had a chance to put the result beyond doubt soon after, but put his low effort wide of the far post.

With 12 minutes left Finland stunned the home crowd by equalising on the counter.

© AP Photos

Alexander Ring broke clear down the right and set up young forward Teemu Pukki, who got beyond Ramos and Gerard Pique to tuck home from close range.

Alvaro Negredo, Juan Mata and David Silva all went close late on but Finland held firm in the final 10 minutes to secure an unlikely point.

Written by
Liam Power