Australia and Saudi Arabia Draw 0-0 in World Cup Qualifier

Australia and Saudi Arabia played out a 0-0 draw in their World Cup qualifier in Sydney on Thursday.

The result leaves both teams with one point from their first two matches in Group B.

Australia had the better chances in the first half, with Awer Mabil and Martin Boyle both going close. Saudi Arabia improved after the break and had a great chance to win it late on, but Salem Al-Dawsari's shot was saved by Mat Ryan.

The draw means that Australia and Saudi Arabia are now both three points behind leaders Japan, who have won their first two matches.

Australia will next face China on Tuesday, while Saudi Arabia will play Vietnam.

Match Highlights

* Australia had the better chances in the first half, with Awer Mabil and Martin Boyle both going close. * Saudi Arabia improved after the break and had a great chance to win it late on, but Salem Al-Dawsari's shot was saved by Mat Ryan. * The draw means that Australia and Saudi Arabia are now both three points behind leaders Japan, who have won their first two matches.

Reaction

* Australia coach Graham Arnold: "I'm disappointed with the result, but I'm pleased with the performance. We created some good chances, but we just couldn't find the back of the net." * Saudi Arabia coach Hervé Renard: "I'm happy with the point. We played against a good team and we created some good chances. We could have won it, but we're happy with the draw."

Next Fixtures

* Australia vs. China (Tuesday, October 12) * Saudi Arabia vs. Vietnam (Tuesday, October 12)