England Under-19s have seen their European Championship title defence end in the group stage following a 5-0 hammering by France in Vaasa.

The Young Lions, who triumphed in Georgia a year ago, were without a number of star players as the tournament clashes with pre-season for many clubs.

Paul Simpson's side only needed to avoid defeat to progress from Group B, but they were outplayed from start to finish by Les Bleus.

Nabil Alioui and Myziane Maolida tapped home to put France in control before the former added his second and a brace from Amine Gouiri made sure of victory for Bernard Diomede's side.

France, who finish second in Group B behind Ukraine, go on to face Italy in the semi-finals.

England, meanwhile, will take on Norway, who finished third in Group A, in a playoff match on Thursday to qualify for the 2019 Under-20 World Cup.