Mark Mapletoft's side claimed a narrow victory over Australia in their final Pool A game but remained reliant on France denying Argentina a point in their Pool B meeting.

Argentina were heading out of the tournament in Italy until they claimed a crucial try-bonus in the 72nd minute of their heavy 52-26 defeat to qualify for the last four.

England's opening loss to South Africa without a bonus point last week meant they would need to beat Australia and still rely on a favour from France, who they beat in last year's final.

Hooker Kepu Tuipulotu scored a hat-trick before fly-half Ben Coen slotted a late penalty to hand England a bonus-point 36-33 victory over Australia.

England won last year's competition, which featured back row Henry Pollock, who has since made his Test debut and is a member of the British and Irish Lions squad in Australia.

The semi-finals will take place in Viadana on Monday as France face New Zealand and South Africa take on Argentina.

Earlier that day, England will face Wales for the fifth-place play-off.