Aki Riihilahti continued his comeback from injury by starting in Finland's goalless draw with Andorra in what was a busy week for the Eagles international's.

The Palace midfielder played the whole 90 minutes but unfortunately couldn't help break down a stubborn Andorra defence which means Finland are now mathematically ruled out of making this summer's World Cup finals.

Eagles striker Andrew Johnson was in the England squad which faced Wales at the Millennium stadium, but failed to make the final 18 that could take part in the match.

That means Johnson is still looking for his first competitive international cap, but may have a chance tonight (Wednesday) when England play Northern Ireland.

There was better news for Crystal Palace's Hungarian duo Gabor Kiraly and Sandor Torghelle who both played in Hungary's 4-0 victory over Malta in Budapest.

Torghelle, who is currently on loan with Greek side Panathinikos, opened the scoring in the 35th minute, before an own goal from Brian Said and strikes from Akos Takacs and Peter Rajczi, sealed the win for Lothar Mattheus' men.

Qualifying for the finals still remains a possibility for Hungary, but they must beat Sweden tonight to prolong their hopes.

Tony Popovic was an unused substitute as Australia beat the Soloman Islands 2-1 yesterday to guarantee the Socceroos appearance in a World Cup play-off fixture against the fifth ranked team in the South America Qualifying Group.

Popovic had already played a big part in the tie, as he featured in the first leg which Australia won 7-0, thanks to goals from captain Mark Viduka (2), Jason Culina, Tim Cahill, Scott Chipperfield, Archie Thompson and Brett Emerton.

At U21 level, Eagles midfielder Tom Soares was an unused substitute as England strolled to a 4-0 win over Wales in Wrexham. Goals from Jon Stead, Peter Whittingham (2) and Michael Dawson secured the victory.

Clinton Morrison is expected to start for Republic of Ireland tonight against France in their vital World Cup qualifier.

A win for the Republic would be a huge boost to their hopes of qualifying for the finals.