Players challenge for the ball during the World Cup qualifying match between Kuwait and South Korea.

KUWAIT CITY, Nov 14, (Agencies): The Kuwait soccer team fell to South Korea 3-1 on Thursday in a Group 2 match of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. This victory puts Korea at 16 points, while Kuwait remains at three. Kuwait’s next match in the sixth round will be against Jordan on Tuesday at Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium.

Earlier, the stadium saw a smooth flow of fans, thanks to the noticeable cooperation of staff during the national football team’s match against South Korea in the 2026 World Cup qualifying finals. Fans entered the stadium through electronic gates using barcode scanning, while vendors inside were prepared to serve light snacks and beverages to the crowd.

Meanwhile, Australia and Saudi Arabia drew 0-0 in Asian qualifying for the 2026 World Cup on Thursday.

While there was late drama there was little quality on display.

Near time, Sultan Al-Ghannam's low shot from just inside the area went in and seemed to give a vital win for Herve Renard, the second-time Saudi coach who replaced Roberto Mancini last month. To the relief of the majority of the 27,491 fans, the goal was disallowed for offside.

Australia was given a penalty after 12 minutes after Mitch Duke went down under a challenge from Saudi goalkeeper Ahmed Al-Kassar but VAR ruled the foul was outside the area.

Saudi Arabia, like Australia aiming for a seventh World Cup appearance, went closest with a shot from Nasser Al-Dawsari forcing a save from Joe Gauci at the near post.

There were fewer opportunities in the second half, the best falling to Australia six minutes from the end. In a two-on-one situation inside the area, Riley McGree's goal-bound shot was blocked by Saud Abdulhamid.

Both teams remained level on six points from five games, four points behind Group C leader Japan.

Only the top two of six in each group will qualify automatically. The third- and fourth-place finishers will advance to the next stage.