World Cup: Syria draw with Iran to keep Russia 2018 qualifying hopes alive

Mohamad's opener sparked wild celebrations from the Syrian players

Syria scored an injury-time equaliser to earn a 2-2 draw against Iran and keep alive their hopes of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

The visitors took a shock lead through Tamer Haj Mohamad's stooping header - the first goal Carlos Queiroz's Iran had conceded in 10 qualifying games.

But on the stroke of half-time, Sardar Azmoun headed Iran level before giving them a second-half lead.

Syria looked to be heading out, but Omar Al Somah coolly slotted home.

South Korea's goalless draw with Uzbekistan allowed them to claim second place in Group A in the Asian section and automatic progression to Russia.

It means Syria will face Australia in a play-off in October, before having to face a Concacaf side in another two-legged tie the following month for a place at the World Cup.

• Read more: Football on the Frontline - The inside story of Syria's World Cup dream.

• Which teams have qualified for the World Cup?

Analysis

BBC Radio 5 live sports news correspondent Richard Conway:

The dream of Russia 2018 is still alive. They are into a play-off now.

We went over to Syria for BBC Sport earlier in the year and spent six days in Damascus and discovered a truly remarkable story.

Syria is in the middle of a six-year war and the team have no money because of the sanctions. Lots of Syrians have mixed emotions about supporting the team. Some, but by no means all, feel that the team rises above politics.

The fact they are in contention for the World Cup is remarkable given what is stacked against them and they have a remarkable team spirit.

They play their home games in Malaysia, which is a 14,000-mile round trip, and where they will play the home leg of their play-off match.

Thousands of Syria fans watched the match on a big screen at the Al-Jalaa stadium in Damascus