Football tips for 18 Jan 2026 highlight top four major matches and reveal today's football schedule.
On 18 Jan 2026, today's football tips cover four major competitions: the English Premier League, the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, Spain's La Liga, and Italy's Serie A. Key matches with expert analysis are as follows.
English Premier League | 23:30 GMT+7
Villa, under coach Unai Emery, are fierce at home, winning 11 consecutive matches in all competitions. Despite dropping points with a 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace in their last league game, they remain in the title race, six points behind the leaders. Morgan Rogers is a key player with 8 goals and 6 assists.
Everton, coached by David Moyes, are struggling, winning only 1 of their last 7 matches, and facing numerous injury problems. The good news is Jack Grealish returns from suspension to visit his former club.
Prediction: The Villains dominate at home.
2025 Africa Cup of Nations Final | 02:00 GMT+7
This is a clash between the continent's top-ranked teams, with host Morocco facing Senegal. Both are aiming for their second-ever national championship.
Senegal boast a strong defense, conceding only two goals throughout the tournament, led by Sadio Mané who hopes to secure a second title.
Morocco, led by star right-back Achraf Hakimi, have a solid defense, conceding just one goal and keeping four consecutive clean sheets in the tournament.
Prediction: Morocco’s home advantage is strong.
Spain La Liga | 03:00 GMT+7
At first glance, Sociedad’s 12th position suggests mid-table safety, but in reality, they are only 4 points above the relegation zone. They recently ended a five-match winless streak in La Liga (2 draws, 3 losses).
Barcelona are in red-hot form, winning nine straight league matches, scoring at least two goals each game. Fresh off winning the Supercopa, they miss Raphinha due to suspension, but still have a significantly stronger squad.
Prediction: The Catalans continue their winning streak.
Italy Serie A | 02:45 GMT+7
AC Milan, managed by Massimiliano Allegri, are serious title contenders, having won 12 of 20 matches. The squad is healthy and confident.
Lecce languish at the bottom, winless in five straight matches. Their main problem is scoring, with only 13 goals in 20 matches.
Head-to-head records heavily favor Milan, who have won the last five encounters. With the match at San Siro, it looks unlikely the visitors will escape defeat.
Prediction: AC Milan to win comfortably.