A statement on the Saudi soccer federation said: “The decision was made after Saturday’s match that he (Dos Anjos) will no longer be in charge.”

The victory lifts Saudi Arabia to the second place just behind Uzbekistan. They need just one point from their next two encounters to reach the final stage of the qualifiers.

Nasser Al Johar has been appointed as a caretaker coach for the rest of the qualifiers. He will be their 19th coach since 1994.

The Brazilian tactician took over in 2006 and led his side to the final of the Asian Cup 2007 but lost to brave Iraq.