*Saudi Arabia - Vietnam: 11:30 PM on monday, 12/1, on VnExpress.

The Czech Republic sports site SoccerVista predicts a tightly contested match, with the most probable score being 2-1 in favor of the West Asian representative. This result would be enough for both teams to advance to the quarter-finals, regardless of the outcome of the concurrent match between Jordan and Kyrgyzstan. According to the site, the probability of Vietnam winning is 17%, a draw is 26%, and a loss is 56%.

UK-based site Wintips also considers Saudi Arabia to be the stronger side, with a 56% chance of winning, a 25% chance of a draw, and a 19% chance of losing.

Striker Nguyen Dinh Bac chases the ball during Vietnam's win against Kyrgyzstan in the second round of Group A at the U23 Asia Cup finals, held at King Abdullah Sports City Hall, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on 9/1. Photo: AFC

Based on head-to-head records, Saudi Arabia has a superior record with 5 wins and one draw in six encounters with Vietnam at the U23 level. In the 5 most recent matches, the West Asian representative secured victories. Therefore, it is understandable that experts favor the U23 Asia Cup 2026 hosts.

On the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) homepage, 48% of readers predict a Saudi Arabia win, 23% voted for a draw, and the remaining 29% sided with Vietnam. If this were the actual win-loss probability, any potential goal difference would be very small.

French sports data site Wincomparator also provides similar predictions. They suggest Vietnam has a 47% chance of losing, a 14% chance of a draw, and a 39% chance of winning. Coach Kim Sang-sik's team needs a draw or a win to secure the top spot in the group and advance to the quarter-finals. According to this site, Vietnam's chance of topping the group is as high as 53%.

However, some sports sites predict Vietnam will achieve a draw or a win. "The match will be tightly contested, as both teams are in good form," states Ukraine's Tips site. "The odds are not heavily skewed towards either side. Saudi Arabia has class, but Vietnam's recent winning streak and disciplined play inspire confidence. A draw could be a popular choice."

The Ukrainian sports site also highly rates Vietnam's ability to score late goals and from set-pieces. "This could change the game's dynamic against vulnerable defenses," the site adds. "Saudi Arabia's performance against Jordan also revealed attacking strengths and defensive weaknesses in Luigi Di Biagio's squad."

Vietnam has earned 12 corner kicks in their two initial U23 Asia Cup 2026 matches, second only to Jordan. In contrast, Saudi Arabia has only had 5 corner kicks. The hosts seemingly do not prioritize set-pieces, and this could be a factor for Coach Kim's team to exploit.

If Vietnam loses to Saudi Arabia by one goal, they could still top the group if Jordan defeats Kyrgyzstan. However, if Coach Kim's squad loses to Saudi Arabia by two goals, they will certainly finish second in the group, regardless of the concurrent match's result. The team will advance if they do not lose to Saudi Arabia 0-3, or avoid a defeat by 4 goals or more.

The first and second positions in Group A are also important. The Group A runner-up will face championship contender Japan in the quarter-finals. In this tournament, the reigning champions are clearly demonstrating their strength and will be a formidable opponent for many teams.

Compiled by Hoang An