Australia squander chances before late reprieve in 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia

Kangaroos rue missed opportunities as Herve Renard's Saudi Arabia secure creditable stalemate

Socceroos denied first win of Asian Cup campaign after failing to break down resolute Saudi defence

Australia were left to rue a series of missed chances as they were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Saudi Arabia in their opening match of the Asian Cup on Sunday.

The Socceroos dominated possession and created a host of goalscoring opportunities, but they were unable to find a way past a resolute Saudi defence.

Saudi Arabia, coached by Frenchman Herve Renard, defended deep and frustrated the Australians with their physicality and organisation.

Australia's best chance came in the second half when Robbie Kruse was clean through on goal, but the striker fired wide.

The Socceroos also had a penalty appeal turned down in the first half when Tom Rogic appeared to be fouled in the box.

Despite their dominance, Australia were forced to settle for a point, which leaves them in second place in Group B behind Jordan.

Australia will be hoping to get their first win of the tournament when they face Jordan in their next match on Thursday.

Australia dominate possession but lack cutting edge

Australia enjoyed the lion's share of possession throughout the match, but they struggled to create clear-cut chances against a well-organised Saudi defence.

The Socceroos' best chance came in the second half when Kruse was clean through on goal, but the striker fired wide.

Australia also had a penalty appeal turned down in the first half when Rogic appeared to be fouled in the box.

Saudi Arabia defend deep and frustrate Australia

Saudi Arabia defended deep and frustrated the Australians with their physicality and organisation.

The Saudis were content to sit back and soak up the pressure, and they made it difficult for Australia to break them down.

Saudi Arabia's defence was well-marshalled by captain Osama Hawsawi, who made a number of crucial blocks and interceptions.

Australia rue missed opportunities

Australia will be left to rue a series of missed chances after they were held to a 0-0 draw by Saudi Arabia.

The Socceroos had a number of good opportunities to score, but they were unable to find a way past the Saudi defence.

Australia's best chance came in the second half when Kruse was clean through on goal, but the striker fired wide.

Conclusion

Australia were left to rue a series of missed chances as they were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Saudi Arabia in their opening match of the Asian Cup.

The Socceroos dominated possession and created a host of goalscoring opportunities, but they were unable to find a way past a resolute Saudi defence.

Saudi Arabia, coached by Frenchman Herve Renard, defended deep and frustrated the Australians with their physicality and organisation.

Australia will be hoping to get their first win of the tournament when they face Jordan in their next match on Thursday.