1xBet provides an overview of the teams' performances in the group stage and their chances of winning the opening semifinal fixture.
Malaysia vs Vietnam, August 16
After three group stage matches, the Harimau Malaya were in second place in Group B with 6 points. Myanmar had the same number of points, so qualification for the knockout stage would be decided on the final matchday.
Malaysia took the lead fairly early in their home fixture against the Philippines. In the 16th minute, the team won the ball on the opponent’s side of the pitch thanks to aggressive pressing; Wan Kuzain delivered an excellent cross into the penalty area, and Pavithran Gunalan scored with a precise header.
After that, the Harimau Malaya created a few more good chances but remained focused on defending and allowed their opponents just one shot on target throughout the match. The 1-0 victory helped Tan Cheng Hoe’s team move ahead of Myanmar, who lost to Thailand on the final matchday.
For Vietnam, advancing to the knockout stage proved easier, with the Golden Star Warriors finishing first in Group A with 10 points. Over four matches, the team conceded only once and scored 13 goals, the best attacking record among all participants in this year’s ASEAN Championship.
FootyRoom Prediction
This semifinal could develop into a game of contrasting phases. Malaysia are comfortable sitting deep and keeping matches tight, but their recent performances suggest they often produce relatively little in attack, with a limited number of shots on target and some results that have been better than the underlying chances would suggest.
Vietnam arrive in much stronger attacking form. They are on an extended unbeaten run, have been scoring consistently and, in several recent matches, have created a significant advantage in big chances and attempts from inside the penalty area. Against that backdrop, Malaysia may struggle to keep the game under control for 90 minutes without offering a regular attacking threat of their own.
FootyRoom's pick: Over 2.5 goals.
Vietnam's current attacking output gives them the potential to make a major contribution to the total themselves. Malaysia do not necessarily need to create a large number of chances either: a defensive mistake, a set piece or an open spell of the game could be enough for the hosts to contribute. Recent scoring trends and Vietnam's attacking form make Over 2.5 goals our preferred selection for this semifinal.
Vietnam will play their first semifinal game against Malaysia on August 16 in Kuala Lumpur. 1xBet estimates the Golden Star Warriors’ odds of winning at 1.68, with the draw priced at 3.1 and Malaysia’s victory at 4.99.
Pick your favorite using the 1xBet review and support your team in the ASEAN Championship knockout stage!
Published by Patrick Jane
16.08.2026