France beat Slovakia to runners-up consolation

UEFA European Under-19 Championship holders France bowed out of this year's competition on a high note as second-half goals from Darnel Situ and substitute Anthony Derouard earned victory against Slovakia.

Philippe Bergeroo's side's defence was ended by Greece on Sunday but at least they finished with a win after finally finding a route past the excellent Patrik Le Giang. Situ got the breakthrough after the hour, turning in from close range when Slovakia failed to deal with Neeskens Kebano's corner. Eleven minutes from time Derouard sealed the points from the spot after Le Giang brought down Yaya Sanogo.

"Our aim was to get a win today, to leave in good spirits even if we will not be going to Romania," said Bergeroo, whose side finish second in elite round Group 3. "This team has been together for four years and we did not want to be beaten in our last match together."

Slovakia coach Pavol Peráček, whose team finished third in the section, added: "Before the tournament we thought this would be the decisive game; Greece changed all that. Today was a good learning experience for the guys but it really isn't easy to get to the finals at this level. Qualification really can be very cruel."