Syria have kept alive their hopes of qualifying for the World Cup with a 1-1 draw with Australia in the first leg of their playoff fixture.

After overcoming the odds to finish in third place in their Asian qualifying group, Syria were handed a clash with the Socceroos and despite a gulf in class between the two nations, the tie remains in the balance.

Robbie Kruse gave Australia the lead five minutes before the break in Malaysia - where Syria are playing their home matches - and Tomi Juric twice struck the post as Australia attempted to put themselves out of sight.

However, in the 85th minute, Omar Al Somah netted a penalty to give his side hope ahead of the second leg, which takes place in Sydney on Tuesday.

Whoever prevails on aggregate will progress through to a final tie with a team from the CONCACAF section of qualifying.