The Netherlands have taken a big step towards qualifying for next year’s women’s World Cup finals after holding France to a 1-1 draw in Auxerre.

France took the lead just before half-time with a header by Marie-Antoinette Katoto. But with 15 minutes left to play Esmee Brugts swung in a cross from the left that Wieke Kapitein headed in over the goalkeeper.

The Dutch had to survive a late onslaught by France, with Grace Geyoro hitting the crossbar with a long-range shot shortly after the equaliser, but managed to hold out for a precious point.

The result, combined with last Wednesday’s 2-1 win over the same opponents in Breda, leaves the Leeuwinnen a point clear of France in their qualifying group with two matches left to play against Poland and Ireland.

Only the group winners qualify automatically for next year’s tournament in Brazil, while the other teams go into a series of play-off rounds.