ENGLAND crashed out of the Rugby World Cup as France booked a semi-final clash with Wales.

The French, seemingly in disarray all week after their pool defeat to Tonga, surged into a 16-0 lead with first-half tries from Vincent Clerc and Maxime Medard.

Ben Foden responded with a touchdown in a better second half for England, but France edged further ahead with a drop goal from Francois Trinh-Duc.

Mark Cueto wrestled his way over the line for a second England try in the dying minutes, but Martin Johnson's men were soundly beaten.

England had set a semi-final appearance as their minimum requirement in New Zealand and questions will now be asked over Johnson's future as manager.