World Cup qualifying: Syria defeated by South Korea in latest match

Syria have been playing their home matches in Malaysia because of the civil war in the Middle Eastern country

Syria's hopes of reaching their first World Cup took a blow as they lost their latest qualifier in South Korea.

A 1-0 victory over Uzbekistan on Thursday had given them a chance of at least advancing to a play-off stage.

That match was played in Malaysia, where Syria's home games are being held because of the ongoing civil war in the Middle Eastern country.

But the 1-0 loss in Seoul on Tuesday leaves them four points adrift of the third-place finish they need.

• Why is there a war in Syria?

• Syria: Football on the frontline

Uzbekistan widened their lead over fourth-placed Syria with a 1-0 victory over Qatar, who remain bottom in Group A of Asian qualifying with three matches to play.

South Korea's win, secured through a fourth-minute goal from Hong Jeong-ho, ensures they keep the pressure on group leaders Iran, who beat China 1-0 to go four points clear.

The top two teams in the group qualify for next summer's World Cup in Russia. The third-placed team would have to win two play-off ties to advance.