The Black Stars build-up to next January's Nations Cup suffered a jolt on Tuesday night after Saudi Arabia thrashed them 5-0 in an international friendly in Riyadh. The defeat was the worst suffered by the Stars since losing 0-3 to Brazil in the second round of last year's World Cup in Germany. The Arabians assault began five minutes into the game when forward, Rahim, fired a 30-metre shot past goalkeeper Richard Kingson following a blunder by Skipper Michael Essien. The homesters scored again from a swift counter attack in the 24th minute after which the Stars made few failed attempts at goal. Not even the introduction of Junior Agogo, Prince Tagoe and Nana Akwasi Asare early in the second half could change the trend of play. As the Stars struggled to recover from the shock, three more goals were to follow in the 50th, 62nd and 91st minutes, with two coming from spot kicks. Francis Dickoh was the first culprit after fouling an attacker in the box, while substitute Nana Akwasi Asare was also penalised by the referee late in the game for a late tackle on an opponent. While Claude Le Roy brought on Ahmed Barusso to strengthen the Stars midfield, the Ghanaian team had to play with reduced strength in the dying minutes after hardworking Anthony Annan was sent off for dissent. The Black Stars had on Saturday beaten Morocco 2:0 in France in another friendly encounter. Ghana: Richard Kingson, John Paintsil, Hans Adu Sarpei/Nana Akwasi Asare, Francis Dickoh/Junior Agogo, Eric Addo/Ahmed Barus¬so, Michael Essien, Laryea Kingson/Andre Ayew, Anthony Annan, Matthew Amoah/Prince Tagoe, Sulley Ali Muntari.