The Saudis succumbed to a crucial 1-0 defeat in North Korea last week, which left them second from bottom in Group 2 of the qualifiers' final phase.

The Asian giants' chances of making it to South Africa are now in jeopardy, despite being regular presenters to the continent in the past four World Cup editions.

The 66-year-old Al-Johar, who put an end to his third stint with Saudi Arabia, will remain with the team as a technical advisor.