AFCON final, Manchester derby and a battle between NBA leaders: top fixtures from Melbet this week

The mid-January sports calendar will give us the conclusion of the Africa Cup of Nations, crucial clashes in European leagues, and battles between the giants in the NBA and NHL. Specially for you, MelBet has picked out the most captivating matches of the week.

Africa Cup of Nations

Third-place playoff

Egypt vs Nigeria (17.01)

Consolation finals for two giants who stumbled just one step away from the decisive match. Nigeria has the best attack in the tournament (14 goals), but unfortunately failed to score in the semi-final against the hosts. On the other hand, Egypt, frustrated after a one-goal defeat to Senegal, needs to find the resources to avoid returning home empty-handed. Can the Super Eagles redeem themselves for the disappointing penalty shootout exit, or will the Pharaohs take the medals? Odds: W1 – 3.55, X – 3.15, W2 – 2.20. 

Final

Senegal vs Morocco (18.01)

The match the whole continent has been waiting for. Hosts Morocco reached the finals thanks to their flawless defense, conceding just 1 goal throughout the entire tournament. In the semi-finals against Nigeria, the Atlas Lions dominated the regular time, but were only able to secure victory in a penalty shootout. The opponents are Senegal, who knocked out Egypt. The Lions of Teranga are one of the most consistent teams in this tournament. However, keeping up with the pace wouldn’t seem easy with Kalidou Koulibaly under suspension. Who rules Africa this year? Odds: W1 – 3.65, X – 3.05, W2 – 2.25.

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Football. Europe

Manchester United vs Manchester City (17.01)

This is a crucial match for Manchester City — Pep Guardiola’s team is 6 points behind Arsenal and cannot afford to slip up. Manchester United are fighting for a spot in the Champions League. However, a new coach is in the spotlight. Man United fired Ruben Amorim after 14 months on the job, while Michael Carrick will take over till the end of the season. Will it become a shock therapy for Red Devils, or will Guardiola spoil the legend’s return? Odds: W1 – 3.65, X – 4.00, W2 – 1.90.

RB Leipzig vs Bayern Munich (17.01)

Bayern Munich started the year with a home demolition of VfL Wolfsburg (8-1) and an away win over 1. FC Köln (3-1), confirming their title ambitions. For RB Leipzig, this match is a test for resilience in the battle for the top 3, where any flaw may give an advantage to competitors. The Red Bulls are strong at home, having lost only one domestic game this season. Can they stop das Munich machine? RB Leipzig’s success is estimated at 4.90, while Munich is at 1.57.

Inter Milan vs Arsenal (20.01)

Arsenal are having a flawless season in the Champions League: 18 points out of 18, a goal difference at +16 and only 1 goal conceded. A win will guarantee Mikel Arteta’s team a place in the round of 16. Meanwhile, the situation is dangerous for Inter: after two consecutive defeats, the team risks losing the spot in the top 8. Can the Nerazzurri beat the best defense in the tournament? Odds: Inter win – 2.62, Arsenal win — 2.64, draw — 3.50. 

Basketball. NBA

Detroit Pistons vs Boston Celtics (20.01)

The Detroit Pistons are perceived as the sole leaders and the biggest surprise of the season. For the Boston Celtics, who are also among the leaders, this away game is a chance to reduce the gap to first place. The last three matches between the teams were intense and ended with margins of 6, 3 and 7 points. Will the current leaders hold their position against experienced giants?

Denver Nuggets vs Los Angeles Lakers (21.01)

Both teams are fighting for spots in the top 6 of the Western Conference. This is their first encounter this season. The Denver Nuggets won their last H2H match. Can the visitors get a revenge, or will the home side take advantage of their home court?

Hockey. NHL

Colorado Avalanche vs Washington Capitals (19.01)

The Colorado Avalanche approach the match as an undisputed leaders of the Western Conference, having the best attack in the league. For the Washington Capitals, every point is precious: the team is balancing on the edge of the top 8 in the Eastern Conference. Their H2H history promises a show: 19 goals have been scored in the last 3 games between these teams. Will the visitors’ motivation overcome the home team’s class?

Toronto Maple Leafs vs Detroit Red Wings (22.01)

A classic Original Six match with tournament significance. The Detroit Red Wings are enjoying a consistent season and are among the leaders in the Eastern Conference, while the Toronto Maple Leafs are in the middle of the standings. For the home side, this is a chance for revenge: the Red Wings have won all of their last three H2H games this season.

Those were the most anticipated fixtures this week.