The world No. 1 side, inspired by full-back Ellie Kildunne, once again broke French hearts. It is 32 wins in a row for England, but they were made to work mighty hard for it by a France team that will be left rueing missed chances, particularly in the first half, as they fell to a ninth successive RWC semi-final loss.
The Red Roses showed why they are undisputed world No.1s as local favourite Abbie Ward cheered a capacity crowd, finishing off a fine team move, and then Kildunne struck the decisive blow, weaving in from 40 metres-plus.
England march on to what they have desperately wanted: a home Rugby World Cup 2025 final in front of a sold-out Allianz Stadium. They will face free-flowing Canada in a battle between the world No.1s and No.2s.
For France, it is another bronze medal play-off, and with a selection of greats set to sign off after this tournament, Les Bleues will not lack motivation versus the dethroned defending champions, New Zealand.