Jordan defeat Saudi Arabia, Vietnam yet to qualify for U23 Asian Cup quarterfinals

Jordan midfielder Mahmoud Khrouba (number 11) celebrates after scoring in the 73rd minute, securing a 3-2 victory against Saudi Arabia at the U23 Asian Cup, at the Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium in Jeddah on Jan. 9, 2026. Photo by AFC

The unexpected outcome has left Group A unpredictable heading into the final round. Vietnam currently sit in first place with 6 points following their 2-1 win over Kyrgyzstan, while Jordan and Saudi Arabia follow with 3 points each.

Playing with home-field advantage, Saudi Arabia took the lead in the 19th minute when Al Nassr youth talent Rakan Al Ghamdi produced a clinical finish. However, Jordan responded with resilience and stunners. In the 38th minute, Ali Azaizeh leveled the score with a beautiful long-range strike, before adding a second just before halftime with a wonderful volley following a defensive lapse by the host.

While the home fans were dreaming of a comeback, Jordan needed only one chance to regain the lead. In the 74th minute, Mahmoud Khrouba unleashed a powerful shot from inside the penalty area, deflecting off a Saudi defender into the net.

The match reached a boiling point in the closing stages when the referee initially awarded Saudi Arabia a penalty, only to overturn the decision after a VAR review and even booked a home player for diving. The result leaves Saudi Arabia with no other option in their upcoming must-win match against Vietnam.

In the final fixtures on Jan. 12, Vietnam need at least a draw against the hosts to decide their fate about guaranteeing a spot in the quarterfinals. A big defeat for Vietnam, coupled with a heavy win for Jordan over Kyrgyzstan, could see the Southeast Asian side eliminated on goal difference.