Liverpool's Internationals Recap: Kolo Qualifies While Allen and Wales Draw with Finland

Senegal 1 (2): Sow (pen.) 77'
Cote d'Ivoire 1 (4): Kalou 90'+4'

After sitting on the bench for the entirety of the first leg, Kolo Toure got the start in central defense today, playing the full match and seeing his country through to next summer's World Cup in Brazil. Moussa Sow got the hosts within a goal on aggregate with a penalty in the 77th minute, but a late goal from Salomon Kalou--his second of the tie--sealed progress for the visitors, who will join Nigeria as Africa's second country to qualify. Hopefully Kolo's form and fitness hold out until the summer, as he's got a chance to see out his international career on a high, especially if Cote d'Ivoire ever live up to the hype as Africa's best World Cup hope.

Wales 1: King 58'
Finland 1: Riski 90'

Joe Allen played 90 minutes against Finland earlier in the day, and immediately after coming off Wales conceded the equalizer. The midfielder was excellent throughout, earning MOTM honors with a confident display; he spent much of the match controlling from deeper positions, and was responsible for springing the move that led to Wales' opener with a smart tackle just inside the Welsh half. Given that he hasn't found much time available at Liverpool, it was a very good display, and one that he'll hopefully build on heading into the busy winter stretch at the club level. I'm guessing someone makes a highlight video of this one, so I'll be sure to update the post if and when it does come available.