The Portuguese, who celebrated a 2-0 aggregate win over Bosnia at the same venue in their 2010 World Cup play-off, dominated proceedings but were almost caught napping late in the game after a subdued home side finally came to life.
Portugal had the upper hand in the opening stages with Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani looking lively on either flank, but failed to create any clear-cut chances as their final pass kept going astray on a bumpy surface littered with holes.
Bosnia's in-form Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko had a quiet game and attempted his first shot on goal only in the 71st minute, blazing his effort from 20 metres high and wide.
Second-half substitute Vedad Ibisevic injected attacking spirit into the home side but squandered Bosnia's best two chances in the closing stages, the first when he sliced the ball wide from seven metres after a poor first touch.
Both coaches, Bosnia's Safet Susic and Paulo Bento of Portugal, agreed the poor surface affected the quality of play by two usually entertaining sides.
"We did not score a goal although we deserved it for what we did here. Portugal played on a pitch which UEFA should not have allowed but we tried to do the best we could," Bento told Portuguese television.
"Both sides had their chances, I was confident there would be at least one goal in the game but a very difficult pitch made scoring a tall order," Susic told Bosnia's BHT television.
"Portugal are a great side, they showed their class throughout the game and caused us a lot of problems.
"I am sure they will have the same level of respect for us after this game because they know we can score away from home and I think we have a realistic chance of reaching next year's finals in Poland and Ukraine."
He added: "They will be happy with this result as much as we are and the tie is likely to go down to the wire. Whatever happens in the return leg, I am proud of the players for coming this far."
