The Arabians showed pretty high level of play in the group stage, comfortably beating Tajikistan and the United Arab Emirates. In the match with Japan, Saudi Arabia played defensively but still kept a draw, also creating a couple of scoring chances.
Vietnam had a tough group, and few expected to see them in the playoffs. But fortune was on their side in the last round, as Thailand lost in a parallel match, and the Vietnamese beat modest Malaysia with effort (the red card and penalties contributed).
We do not think Vietnam will be so lucky at the playoff stage. Saudi Arabia is head and shoulders higher in the level of play and rarely makes mistakes in defense. Besides, the goalkeeper of the hosts shows brilliant play in this competition.
Our prediction: Saudi Arabia 23 to win. We recommend the “1 Win” bet, odds 1.42
