Reading vs Luton prediction 18.12.2025 | League One

Reading are playing their third consecutive season in League One after their relegation in 2022/23. Despite expectations from football experts, the Royals failed to make it to the playoffs, finishing 15th and 7th. Last year, they were close, but eventually crumbled in the final part of the season and missed it by three points.

This season, the Royals have had an atrocious start, failing to win in the first five rounds. Eventually, they started playing better, but are on a slide once again after losing back-to-back games vs Peterborough and Bradford City. At the moment, the Royals are in 18th place with 22 points from 19 rounds.

After a 2:0 loss vs Bradford City, coach Leam Richardson spoke to the media. He said the result was disappointing, but pointed out they showed good energy and structure early on. Unfortunately, they failed to sustain that in the second half, which eventually led to the defeat. 

Luton managed to reach the Premier League in 2022/23 but then suffered consecutive relegations in the following two seasons. This year, the Hatters are considered one of the teams likely to secure an instant promotion. However, they failed to deliver thus far as they are sitting in seventh place. Yes, the Playoffs are three points away, but 6th-placed Stockport have played one game less. Additionally, the direct promotion is already eight points away (also with one more game played).

After a 2:2 draw with Port Vale, coach Jack Wilshere spoke to the media. He was frustrated with the result, feeling that Luton lost two points rather than gained one from this draw. However, the young coach said he has a lot of belief in his players and urged them to start believing in themselves. The coach emphasized they need to improve on the offensive end.