MI Emirates are favored to win with odds around 1.75 due to their strong recent form, winning 3 of their last 5 matches including a 35-run victory over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders on Dec 20 2025, led by captain Kieron Pollard and key players like Nicholas Pooran in excellent shape with DexWin - Best Odds on Your Favourite Sports.

The match starts at 2:30 PM GST on January 2, 2026, which is 10:30 AM UTC, at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, UAE, hosts the match with a capacity of 25,000 and world-class facilities including floodlights for night games and a pitch favoring high-scoring T20 encounters.

MI Emirates are predicted to win with moneyline odds of 1.75 on DexWin, backed by their superior head-to-head edge and recent playoff experience despite losing Qualifier 1, while Knight Riders struggled in chases like the 39-run loss on Dec 20 2025.

In head-to-head matches this season, MI Emirates lead with 2 wins to Abu Dhabi Knight Riders' 1, including a dominant 35-run victory on Dec 20 2025 at Abu Dhabi; overall, MI Emirates average higher totals and better bowling economy rates.