Rafael Nogueira
Villarreal vs Ajax is a high-stakes UEFA Champions League League phase Round 7 fixture, with both clubs fighting to keep even a slim qualification hope alive. Villarreal sit 35th with one point from six matches, while Ajax are 34th with three points. With only two league-phase games left, anything but a win could effectively end the European campaign for either side. Expect urgency from the first whistle at Estadio de la Cerámica as two big domestic performers try to rescue a disappointing Champions League run.
Match Preview
This Round 7 meeting comes at a brutal moment for both teams in the new Champions League league-phase format. Villarreal have taken just one point from six games (0W-1D-5L), scoring four and conceding 13. Ajax are only marginally better with three points (1W-0D-5L), and their defensive numbers are even worse: 18 conceded, plus an 11-match run without a clean sheet in the competition.
It is also a first: Villarreal and Ajax have never met in a competitive European fixture. Ajax’s historical record vs Spanish clubs stands at 18-6-20, while Villarreal have fared well against Dutch opponents (6-3-1). Villarreal’s season remains a paradox—third in La Liga, yet second-bottom in Europe—so this home night is a chance to restore credibility.
Suspensions and injuries shape the matchup. Villarreal will miss Juan Foyth and Pape Gueye (both suspended), while Logan Costa and Pau Cabanes remain out with long-term knee injuries. Ajax have a doubt over Wout Weghorst (ankle), which could push Kasper Dolberg into a leading role again. Ajax’s recent 4-2 win over Qarabag showed they can score freely, and their away form (four wins, one draw, one loss in the last six road matches) gives them a real angle in Spain.
Where to watch on TV & Live Stream
Kick-off is at 21:00 CET on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at Estadio de la Cerámica in Villarreal, Spain. In the UK, Sky Sports will show the match. In the USA, ESPN will carry coverage with streaming via ESPN+. Across Africa, SuperSport is the main broadcast partner for Champions League action.
| Region/Country | Kick-off Time (Local) |
| UK | 20:00 GMT |
| USA (ET) | 15:00 EST |
| USA (PT) | 12:00 PST |
| Australia (Sydney) | 08:00 AEDT (Jan 21) |
| Japan | 05:00 JST (Jan 21) |
| India | 01:30 IST (Jan 21) |
How to watch Villarreal vs Ajax online
Most viewers will stream Villarreal vs Ajax through their territory’s official Champions League rights holder. In the UK, Sky Sports subscribers can use Sky Go and the Sky Sports app on mobile, desktop, and smart TVs. Sky Sports pricing is typically around £18 to £25 per month depending on the package. In the USA, ESPN+ is the main streaming home, available as a standalone subscription (around $10.99/month) or via bundles. Australia’s official option is Paramount+ streaming. Expect standard geo-blocking on all platforms, so you must be located in the country where your subscription is registered and licensed.
| Country | Official Broadcaster/Stream |
| UK | TNT Sports, discovery+ |
| USA | Paramount+ |
| Canada | DAZN |
| Australia | Stan Sport |
| China | iQIYI |
| Germany | DAZN |
| Denmark | Viaplay |
| Spain | Movistar |
| Portugal | DAZN |
| France | Canal+ |
| Poland | Canal+ |
| Ukraine | Megogo |
| Japan | WOWOW |
| Africa | SuperSport |
| Brazil / Argentina | Max Brazil / Disney+ |
Spotlight Countries
- United Kingdom: Watch on TNT Sports, with streaming available via TNT for subscribers. Check TNT Sky Sports schedule close to kick-off for the exact channel listing.
- United States: Stream the match on Paramount+ and follow TV coverage where scheduled.
- Canada: DAZN share Champions League rights, so the match may be assigned to either network. Their apps are the quickest way to confirm the live listing on matchday.
- Australia: Stan Sport is the official streaming home for Champions League coverage. The local start time is early morning in Sydney (08:00 AEDT on Jan 21).
- Japan: WOWOW carries Champions League rights, with a 05:00 JST kick-off on Jan 21. Plan ahead for early-morning access via WOWOW’s supported devices.
How to watch anywhere with VPN
Streaming services enforce geo-restrictions, so access depends on where you are located. A VPN can help you connect to a server in your home country so you can use the streaming service you already pay for while traveling. Use a reputable VPN provider, then select a server in the country of your broadcaster (for example, the UK for Sky Go). Open the streaming app or website, sign in, and start watching as normal.
Most top VPNs support iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and many smart TV setups. You still need an active subscription to the official platform. Always follow the platform’s terms and local laws.
How to watch at Sportsbooks
Some sportsbooks offer live streams for football matches, including selected Champions League fixtures, if you have an eligible account. Bet365 and Unibet are common examples, but coverage varies by country and by match. Availability can change at short notice, so check the event page well before kick-off.
- Create an account with a licensed sportsbook in your region
- Complete verification if required
- Deposit funds (many sites require a funded balance)
- Find Villarreal vs Ajax in the live section and look for the “Play”/stream icon
Villarreal and Ajax both need points fast, and this first-ever competitive meeting has real pressure attached. Set your reminders for 21:00 CET, confirm your local broadcaster, and don’t miss a Champions League night where mistakes could decide the season.