Czech sports site SoccerVista predicts a 2-1 win for Saudi Arabia, a result that would ultimately see both teams advance to the quarterfinals, regardless of the match result between Jordan and Kyrgyzstan. Saudi Arabia holds a 56% probability of winning, while a draw stands at 26% and a Vietnam victory at 17%.
U.K.-based site Winning tips offers a similar outlook, giving the hosts a 56% chance of victory and Vietnam 19%.
Historically, Saudi Arabia have dominated the U23 head-to-head record with five wins and one draw in six previous encounters with Vietnam.
On the official Asian Football Confederation (AFC), 48% of readers favor a Saudi win compared to 29% for Vietnam.
French sports data site Wincomparator estimates Vietnam’s chances of winning the group at 53%, despite predicting a 47% chance of a defeat and a 39% chance of winning in this match.
Forward Nguyen Dinh Bac (number 7) chases the ball during Vietnam’s victory over Kyrgyzstan in the U23 Asian Cup at King Abdullah Sports City Hall, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Jan. 9, 2026. Photo by AFC |
“The match will be closely contested, as both teams are in good form,” Ukrainian website Tips noted.
The site praised Vietnam’s disciplined play and ability to score late from set pieces, although Saudi Arabia are rated higher.
“This could change the course of the match against loose defenses,” the site added. “Saudi Arabia’s performance against Jordan revealed strengths in attack and weaknesses in defense of Luigi Di Biagio’s team.”
Vietnam earned 12 corner kicks in their first two matches, where they beat both Jordan and Kyrgyzstan, the second-highest in the tournament behind Jordan, while Saudi Arabia recorded only five.
While a loss by one or two goals could still see Vietnam qualify, the stakes remain high; the second-placed team in Group A is likely to face defending champions Japan in the quarterfinal round.
If Vietnam loses to Saudi Arabia by one goal, they can still top the group if Jordan beat Kyrgyzstan. If they lose to Saudi Arabia by two goals, coach Kim’s team will finish second, regardless of the result of the other match played at the same time. They will advance if they don’t lose to Saudi Arabia 0-3, or avoid a defeat by four goals or more.
However, Vietnam would aim for the top spot to avoid facing Japan in the quarterfinals.
The clash between Saudi Arabia and Vietnam will take place at 11:30 p.m. (Hanoi time) on Monday. It will be reported live on Read International.
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