Possible team (3-2-4-1): Ryan; Degenek, Sainsbury, Jurman; Luongo, Milligan; Leckie, Mooy, Rogic, Smith; Cahill.

Key player: Tom Rogic

Huge moment: Creative midfielder Tom Rogic. Photo: Paul Rovere

The Celtic midfielder was used sparingly in the first leg in Malaysia, playing just seven minutes in the sapping heat with a plan to keep Australia's best attacking weapon fresh for the return tie. Rogic will almost certainly start on Tuesday night and will be licking his lips at the prospect of facing a Syrian defence weakened by suspensions. The 24-year-old is without doubt the Socceroos' best game-breaker. He could be entrusted with a free role behind the striker where he will be licensed to create, torment and toy with his opponents. He proved he can rise in the big occasions with a decisive goal against Saudi Arabia in Adelaide and another strong performance in this campaign will consolidate his role as Australia's most exciting talent.

Syria

Possible team (4-4-2): Alma; Ajan, Somi, Al-Baour, Al-Shbli; Jeniat, Haj Mohammed, Al-Midani, Mawas; Al-Soma, Al-Khatib.

Key player: Firas Al-Khatib

Syria's Firas Al Khatib, left, playing against Japan. Photo: AP

Surprisingly, Syria's captain did not start the first leg, but was influential in his role off the bench as they clinched a controversial 1-1 draw. With Omar Kharbin suspended, Al-Khatib will certainly return to the starting lineup to partner the ever-dangerous Omar Al-Soma in attack. Al-Khatib will play the architect's role, liberating Al-Soma to poach, with his creative brand of attack. A stocky yet powerful forward, Al-Khatib is also clinical in front of goal. He offers Syria an alternative option from set pieces and will one of the threats Australia must guard carefully.

Key battle

Trent Sainsbury v Omar Al-Soma

Trent Sainsbury at Socceroos training in Malaysia. Photo: FFA

The ever-present danger of the Al-Ahli forward kept the Socceroos' backline on their toes in the first leg and little will change in Sydney. Al-Soma will be the focal point of Syria's attack, meaning Australia's leader in defence will be entrusted with the job of marking him out of the game. Not only is Sainsbury one of the first names on the team sheet under the guidance of Ange Postecoglou, but widely regarded as Australia's best defender. Should he justify that growing reputation by keeping Al-Soma quiet, it will be another feather in the cap of the young defender who's already a stalwart of this national team.