England enjoyed victory over North Korea ©FIFA

Defending champions North Korea were defeated 3-1 by England as the FIFA Women's Under-20 World Cup began in France.

The Asian nation had been fancied to win the youth tournament for a third time but were well beaten at the Stade du Clos Gastel in Dinan-Léhon.

Alessia Russo gave England the lead after 31 minutes of the Group B clash.

England's advantage was then doubled on the hour mark by Georgia Stanway before Ja Un-Yong brought the North Koreans back into it with 71 minutes played.

Any hopes of a comeback were thwarted just two minutes later, however, when Russo netted her second.

Mexico defeated Brazil 3-2 in their first match ©FIFA
Mexico defeated Brazil 3-2 in their first match ©FIFA

The other game in the group saw Mexico beat Brazil 3-2 at the same venue.

In Group A, hosts France began against Ghana at the Stade de la Rabine in Vannes and eased home 4-1.

Emelyne Laurent struck twice and Hélène Fercocq and Sandy Baltimore also registered, with Sandra Owusu-Ansah replying for Ghana.

The other game in the group saw The Netherlands beat New Zealand 2-1.

The tournament continues tomorrow.