The main event of the day kicks off at 5:00 PM with the classic Catalan derby between Espanyol and Barcelona, where the league leader will look to extend its lead at the top. The round will conclude on Sunday, January 4th, with five matches. Sevilla and Levante will open the day at 10:00 AM in a crucial match for two teams in urgent need of points. Later, at 5:00 PM, Real Sociedad will host Atlético Madrid in a key clash for a top-four spot. With Barcelona leading the table with 46 points, followed by Real Madrid (42) and Atlético (37), Matchday 18 appears to be a turning point in the championship, featuring direct confrontations and results that could reshape the standings across the board. Matchday 18 Schedule: Friday, January 2nd. Rayo Vallecano vs. Getafe – 5:00 PM. Saturday, January 3rd. Celta Vigo vs. Valencia – 10:00 AM. Osasuna vs. Athletic – 12:15 PM. Mallorca vs. Girona – 2:30 PM. Alavés vs. Real Oviedo – 2:30 PM. Real Sociedad vs. Atlético Madrid – 5:00 PM. Sunday, January 4th. Sevilla vs. Levante – 10:00 AM. Real Madrid vs. Real Betis – 12:15 PM. Elche vs. Villarreal – 2:30 PM. RCD Espanyol vs. Barcelona – 5:00 PM.
