Tom Rogic is one match away from reaching the World Cup Finals in Russia next summer.
A 0-0 draw for Australia in Honduras allows the Socceroos the chance to secure qualification at home in Sydney on Tuesday.
Rogic came on for former Celtic Jackson Irvine after 74 minutes and is expected to start the return leg as Australia chase the win that will book their place in Russia.
Australia have had to battle through two qualifying groups and are now in their second play-off as they bid to reach the finals.
The laboured qualification campaign has taken it’s toll on Socceroos boss Ange Postecoglou who is expected to stand down regardless of the result of the return leg.
Australia had the better of the match which was played in a feisty atmosphere with both countries trading insults.
In an interview with an Australian comedian Tim Cahill was asked about facing ISIS after seeing off Syria in the previous round while a Honduran newspaper produced a picture of 11 kangaroos to illustrate their opponents.
In the European play-off’s Sweden beat Italy 1-0 at home with Mikael Lustig expected to return from suspension for the second leg in Milan on Monday.
