Internationals: Joy for Lovren but despair for Woodburn

Dejan Lovren played the full 90 minutes as Croatia booked their place in the World Cup play-offs, but there was disappointment for Ben Woodburn as Wales missed out on qualification after a 1-0 defeat to the Republic of Ireland.

Going into their final game away to Ukraine, Croatia, with Lovren back in the centre of their defence, produced a superb display as they celebrated a 2-0 win.

However, there was frustration for 17-year-old Woodburn as Wales failed to reach the World Cup.

The Liverpool youngster came on as a 64th minute substitute in Cardiff but, despite some nice touches, was unable to influence any comeback for Chris Coleman’s side.

The only goal of the game came in the 57th minute as James McClean’s strike ensured a play-off spot for Martin O’Neill’s men.

Liverpool U23s captain Corey Whelan went the full distance as Republic of Ireland U21s beat Israel 4-0 in a European Championship qualifier in Dublin.