Saudi Arabia out of World Cup

Saudi Arabia's hopes of qualifying for the 2014 World Cup were ended by Australia earlier today.

The Saudis, who needed to beat the Australians in Melbourne to have any chance of reaching the tournament in Brazil, lost 4-2 courtesy of goals after the break from Alex Brosque, Harry Kewell and Brett Emerton.

Saudi had previously participated in four World Cup competitions, the last of which came in Germany six years ago.

Their place in the qualifying tournament has gone to Oman.