France through after third successive win

World champions France are through to the UEFA European Women's Under-17 Championship final tournament in England after Poland's title defence was ended in elite round Group 4.

Before their decider against Sweden in Dungannon, France – whose squad included 2012 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup winner Delphine Cascarino – held a two-point lead over their opponents, with Poland and hosts Northern Ireland out of contention.

Following their 1-0 triumph, secured by substitute Perle Morroni's 73rd-minute goal, Guy Ferrier's team take their place in next Thursday's draw at Burton Town Hall, which already involves England, Spain, Scotland, Austria and Germany.

Poland beat Sweden in Nyon in June to win their first women's title, but their hopes of defending the crown in England looked slim after an opening 3-0 loss to France, Marine Julian, Anissa Lahmari and substitute Manon Uffren getting the goals. Sweden defeated Northern Ireland 2-0, Rebecka Blomqvist striking on 28 and 56 minutes.

Two days later Sweden were two up inside 22 minutes in their final rematch against Poland through Blomqvist and Julia Zigiotti Olme. Substitute Aleksandra Lizoń reduced arrears and Dominika Grabowska levelled in added time, but Poland's reign was over. France beat Northern Ireland 2-0 to go top, Mathilde Jouanno getting both goals.

France, after their last-day success, will now aim to finish in the top three in England so they can defend their world title in Costa Rica in March. Poland at least signed off with three points, prevailing 1-0 against Northern Ireland courtesy of Lizoń's second-half effort.