Controversial penalty keeps Syria's World Cup dream alive
In the 85th minute of the playoff first leg match against Australia, Matthew Leckie was penalised for a foul on Omar Al-Somah, who buried the spot kick.
Syria kept their chances of reaching the World Cup in Russia alive in a 1-1 draw with Australia in Malaysia after the award of a controversial last-gasp penalty.
Syria striker Omar Al-Somah went up for a challenge with Hertha Berlin midfielder Matthew Leckie in the area and despite minimal contact Iranian referee Alireza Faghani pointed to the spot.
Al-Somah dutifully stepped up to take the kick and buried his shot past Australia keeper Maty Ryan to leave the tie delicately balanced ahead of the return leg in Sydney.