Here are our MLS picks for Sunday 18 October 2026. Our model likes 6 bets here. The one it likes most is Under 3.5 Total Goals, priced at -105 when we wrote this. Here is the thinking behind each pick, in plain English.
Odds correct at time of publishing
As the New York Red Bulls prepare to host Toronto FC, a closer look at their recent performances reveals a compelling case for taking the Under 3.5 goals. The Red Bulls have averaged just 1.2 goals at home, while their opponents have been even less prolific, conceding an average of 1.8. Toronto, struggling on the road, has only managed 0.8 goals per game away, which aligns with their low xG numbers. Additionally, both teams are creating minimal scoring opportunities, with the Red Bulls generating just 14.6 shots and 5.6 on target at home. Toronto's away struggles are evident as they average a meager 11.8 shots overall, with even fewer on target. With both teams trending towards low-scoring affairs—evidenced by their last encounters—there’s strong reason to believe this matchup will not see more than three goals. It’s shaping up to be a tight contest, making the Under 3.5 the smart play here.
Monza vs Cagliari: Cagliari +1.5 Corner Handicap (-145)
Odds correct at time of publishing
As we gear up for this Serie A clash between Monza and Cagliari, the trends suggest that Cagliari is poised to deliver a solid performance. Monza has struggled at home, boasting just one win in their last five, while conceding an average of 2.4 goals per game at home. In contrast, Cagliari has been on a roll, with three wins in their last five away matches and a staunch defense that’s allowed only 0.4 goals per game in that timeframe. Cagliari's ability to limit opponent scoring, coupled with Monza's offensive woes (averaging only 1 goal at home), paints a troubling picture for the hosts. With Cagliari's recent form showing a knack for finding the net—averaging 1.2 goals away—taking them with a 1.5 handicap seems like a savvy move. They’ve historically fared well against Monza, making this bet even more enticing.
Charlton Athletic vs Norwich City: Charlton Athletic Draw No Bet (+150)
Odds correct at time of publishing
As Charlton Athletic prepares to host Norwich City, the home side might just have the upper hand in what promises to be a tightly contested affair. Despite a mixed record recently, Charlton has shown resilience at home, going 2-3-0 in their last five matches at The Valley, while limiting opponents to just 0.4 goals per game during this stretch. Norwich, on the other hand, is struggling away from home with five consecutive losses, averaging 1.4 goals scored but conceding 2.2. While both teams have had their offensive woes, Charlton's defensive stability at home could make the difference. With the added safety of a Draw No Bet, backing Charlton feels like a savvy move, especially given their prior ability to stifle Norwich in recent encounters. Expect a gritty matchup, but the odds favor the Addicks to secure at least a stalemate—or perhaps a much-needed win.
Tottenham Hotspur vs Coventry City: Coventry City +0.75 Goal Handicap (+135)
Odds correct at time of publishing
As Tottenham Hotspur faces off against Coventry City, it’s hard to ignore the recent form of both sides. Spurs are struggling at home, with just one win in their last five at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, scoring a meager 0.8 goals per game. Their xG metrics are alarming—showing a stark lack of creativity and finishing touch. In contrast, Coventry City’s away record offers a glimmer of hope; they're unbeaten in their last five away matches, with solid performances averaging 1.2 goals scored. While their xG may not jump off the page, their ability to stay competitive makes them a worthy opponent. With Spurs showing vulnerabilities and Coventry riding a wave of confidence, backing Coventry at +0.75 seems wise. They can exploit Tottenham’s defensive weaknesses, positioning themselves for a valuable draw or even a win—a scenario that feels increasingly plausible.
Lorient vs AS Monaco: Over 8.5 Total Corners (-149)
Odds correct at time of publishing
As Lorient prepares to host AS Monaco, the corner flags could see plenty of action. Recent matches have shown both teams leaning into aggressive attacking play, often leading to a flurry of corner kicks. Lorient's last five outings have yielded an average of nearly 11.8 shots per game at home, and with their defensive lapses allowing opponents to generate about 1.8 goals at the Stade du Moustoir, expect a high-paced affair. Against Monaco, who also tend to push forward, corner opportunities should multiply. The recent trend of both sides producing over 8.5 corners in their encounters makes the 'Over' bet tantalizingly appealing. With Lorient's corners averaging 1.2 in the last five home games, combined with Monaco's similar trends, it's hard to see this match falling short of that mark. So, with both teams set to engage, this match promises a lively corner count that could easily exceed 8.5.
Parma vs Torino: Over 9.5 Total Corners (+150)
Odds correct at time of publishing
As Parma prepares to host Torino, the stage is set for a game that promises plenty of action, especially in terms of corners. Both teams have been generating their fair share of attempts lately; Parma's average of 10.4 shots per game at home suggests they’ll be pushing forward, even if their scoring has been lackluster with just 1.2 goals per match. Torino, meanwhile, has been no slouch either, averaging 10 shots away from home, coupled with their tendency to draw fouls—averaging 12.2 per game. With both sides grappling to find their scoring touch, expect them to focus on creating set pieces and corner opportunities. Given both teams’ defensive frailties and the recent averages, betting on over 9.5 corners feels like a savvy play. The recent trends indicate a match where corners could come thick and fast, making this line an enticing prospect.
That is the model's read on today's MLS card. Prices move, so check the price at your bookmaker before you back anything. And if a game does not feel right to you, the strongest move is to skip it -- there is another one tomorrow.
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