The result, after Albania missed a late penalty, left Bulgaria third with 19 points from 10 matches. Romania lead the group with 26 points from 10 matches, three points more than Netherlands.
Klodian Duro almost gave Albania a dream start in the third minute, hitting the bar with a thunderous 20-metre shot, while unmarked Hamdi Salihi blasted over from close range after 11 minutes.
Albania's Croatian coach Otto Baric was sent off in the 24th minute after arguing with Austrian referee Fritz Stuchlik.
The home side, however, continued to press forward and took a deserved lead in the 31st minute when Bulgaria's Radostin Kishishev headed into his own net as he tried to clear a Duro free kick.
Bulgaria striker Dimitar Berbatov levelled with three minutes remaining when he tucked the ball home at the near post off a perfect low cross from the right by substitute Hristo Yovov.
The hosts were then given the chance to take all three points following a hand-ball in the area by Igor Tomasic, but Bulgaria keeper Georgi Petkov saved Ervin Skela's spot-kick.
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