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Wales Under-20 were beaten by France in their opening World Rugby U20 Championship game in Italy.

Early tries from Arthur Bonneval and Thomas Ramos gave France a 12-3 lead at half-time.

Les Bleuets extended their lead with a fine team score from Lucas Blanc in the second half.

Garyn Smith crossed for Wales, who put their opponents under pressure late in the game, but France held on for victory.

Wales' next match is against England on Saturday, 6 June.

France won 27-5 when they faced Wales in the Six Nations in February, and they made a confident start at Calvisano's Stadio San Michele.

Wing Bonneval scored the first try after an early spell of pressure and, with 13 minutes gone, full-back Ramos touched down in the corner.

Ramos converted his own score, before fly-half Daniel Jones claimed Wales' first points with a penalty.

France stretched their lead to 19-3 early in the second half as wing Blanc finished off a flowing team move, but Wales gave themselves hope as centre Smith barged over from close range.

Wales attacked willingly in the closing stages of the game, but they were thwarted by a resolute French side.