Why Fulham vs. Liverpool Kicks Off in Rare 3pm Sunday Slot on UK TV

Fulham's Premier League home clash against Liverpool on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at Craven Cottage unusually kicks off at 3pm GMT, a rare traditional slot for Sunday matches in the UK. This fixture, part of Week 20, will be live on Sky Sports Main Event, allowing fans to attend without the typical evening blackout restrictions[2].

The 3pm blackout rule, long enforced by UK broadcasters to boost stadium attendance, typically spares Sunday games from afternoon scheduling, pushing them to 4:30pm, 5:30pm, or later. However, this matchup bucks the trend, aligning with the traditional British kick-off time and coinciding with available tickets for Liverpool supporters—sales ongoing via the club's site, limited to one per supporter ID, max four per booking[1].

Match Context and Form

Fulham (8-3-8, 27 points), in resurgent form, host Liverpool (10-3-6, 33 points), who chase a top-four spot. A Fulham win could propel them to sixth or seventh, depending on results like Manchester United at Leeds[2][3]. Liverpool sit fourth, four points above Chelsea, but have struggled in London, with just one clean sheet in five league visits this season (W2, L3)[2].

• Head-to-Head: Fulham won one of last five league meetings (W1 D1 L3); Liverpool won one of last four trips to Craven Cottage (W1 D2 L1)[2]. Rodrigo Muniz scored in both Fulham-Liverpool games last season[2].
• Recent Form: Fulham unbeaten in four, winning three of last five homes (W3 L2). Liverpool drew a wasteful home game vs. Leeds[2].

Preview and Prediction

Fulham's resilience shone in their draw at Crystal Palace, while Arne Slot's Reds need sharper finishing. Craven Cottage has been tough for Liverpool recently. Prediction: Fulham 1-1 Liverpool[2].

Tickets remain subject to availability; no forwarding for away games[1]. Coverage includes live scores on ESPN[3]. This scheduling rarity highlights broadcasters' flexibility amid strong attendances.

(Word count: 298)