Football fans are treated to a packed Sunday schedule featuring crucial Premier League clashes, a reduced EFL programme, and knockout action from the Africa Cup of Nations. The live updates began at 3pm GMT on Sunday, 4th January 2026.
Afternoon Premier League Fixtures in Focus
Despite the date, the fixture list has a distinctly Saturday feel with four top-flight matches kicking off at 3pm GMT. All the games involve sides with ambitions of finishing in the top half of the table, highlighting the tight competition in the league. The key question is whether Liverpool can secure a vital three points away at Craven Cottage against Fulham.
The other Premier League encounters include Newcastle United welcoming Crystal Palace to St James' Park, Everton facing Brentford, and Tottenham Hotspur taking on Sunderland. These matches could significantly impact the standings in the crowded middle section of the division.
Weather Disrupts Lower League Programme
The afternoon's football action beyond the Premier League has been heavily affected by frozen pitches. In a significant disruption, ten matches in League Two have been postponed. The Championship has also lost two fixtures: Sheffield United versus Oxford United and Portsmouth's match against Ipswich Town.
Furthermore, four games in League One have fallen victim to the conditions. Of the second-tier matches that have survived, Hull City against Watford and Bristol City's meeting with Preston North End are highlighted as the most promising contests.
Evening Afcon Knockout Drama
The football action continues into the evening with a last-16 tie from the Africa Cup of Nations. Host nation Morocco are set to face Tanzania in Rabat, with a 4pm GMT kick-off. This encounter promises to be a lively affair as the tournament reaches its decisive knockout phase.
As ever, readers were invited to follow all the major developments live and contribute their thoughts via email. The clockwatch provided comprehensive coverage across the UK's football landscape on a busy winter Sunday.
