Syria held Korea Republic to a 0-0 draw in a hard-fought Group A clash in the final round of qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup at Paroi Stadium in Seremban, Malaysia on Tuesday evening.
Held at a neutral venue due to the ongoing security situation in Syria, Korea Republic enjoyed the lion's share of possession and more chances but could not break down a resolute defence.
The 2002 FIFA World Cup semi-finalists, who defeated China 3-2 in the opening game of the group five days previously, started strongly and after eight minutes, Syrian goalkeeper Ibrahim Alma was called into action to save a shot from Koo Ja-cheol after the FC Augsburg star had been released by Lee Jae-sung.
The visitors were making most of the running but goalkeeper Kim Sung-gyu was forced into a flying save after 19 minutes. Mahmoud Al Mawas picked up the ball far from goal but his shot was fiercely struck and goalbound before Kim blocked the danger.
Korea Republic had another chance just before the half hour. Lee Jae-sung whipped in a free-kick from the left byline and Kim Young-gwon headed over from close range.
Another swift counter-attack from Syria saw Oh Jae-suk receive a yellow card for bringing down Al Mawas in a dangerous position and there was still time for Kim Young-gwon to see another shot blocked by the hard-working Syrian defence.
The East Asian team started the second half aggressively with Lee Jae-sung bursting down the left only for his low cross to be blocked.
Ten minutes after the break, Korea Republic cut Syria wide open.
Lee Chung-yong laid the ball off to Lee Yong on the right-side and received the ball back but the first-time shot from the Crystal Palace winger was pushed past the post by Alma.
From the ensuing corner, Kim Young-gwon blasted a shot well-wide from close range.
Syria continued to ask questions of the Korea Republic defence on the counter-attack.
Amro Jenyat galloped down the left and his looping cross was headed goalwards by Rafat Mohtadi but Kim Seung-gyu got across well to make the save.
Korea Republic piled on the pressure in the closing stages of the game but despite forcing successive corners, were unable to break the deadlock.
The point marks Syria's first in Group A after a 1-0 loss in Uzbekistan five days previously.
