Premier League Buildup, La Liga, Africa Cup Knockout Stage and Celtic v Rangers – Matchday Action

Introduction

Greetings. It’s … (checks diary) … Saturday. After the festive confusion, it’s now the third day of the new year although a schedule of only four top-flight matches indicates things aren't back to normal. Still, for many out there, this is the last holiday weekend so a perfect opportunity to head to the match.

That selection of four EPL games includes Aston Villa v Nottingham Forest at half past twelve while, kicking off at the same time, we have the little matter of an Old Firm derby. This one is especially fascinating due to the ongoing turmoil at Celtic Park.

Later in the day at 5.30pm, leaders Arsenal travel to a Bournemouth side who are struggling for victories but are still able to produce thrilling stalemates with the bigger sides.

While the lower leagues have a day off, there is plenty of action in Serie A, La Liga and Ligue 1 while we’ve reached the last 16 of Afcon. Senegal v Sudan at 4pm and Mali v Tunisia at seven o'clock keep the action coming.

Typical for our live coverage, we’re looking for interaction so send us your thoughts and messages. Are you going to a game? Has the new year brought renewed hope for your club? Or simply just tell us if your day consists of wall-to-wall football on the tellybox as you polish off the final chocolate oranges. I think we can all agree that the caramel version is nowhere near as good.

Alright, it's time to begin the weekend's action!

A Fan's Epic Journey

One fan has made an epic trip. Christer Aakeroy emails this:

“Having travelled over 4,400 miles from Manhattan, Kansas (yes, it’s known as the ‘Little Apple’) to watch my beloved Seagulls, I really hope that they live up to their undoubted potential and bring plenty of warmth and joy to the Amex this afternoon.”

Brighton host Burnley (3pm) so statistics suggest a positive outcome, Christer. However, this piece of data might be worrying:

Burnley are unbeaten in their last seven away league games against Brighton (W2 D5) since a defeat in August 2013. They’ve remained undefeated at the Amex in the top flight (W2 D4).

Live Coverage Galore

For fans of live text commentary, we offer extensive coverage. And more!

12.30pm Aston Villa v Nottingham Forest – Sarah Rendell
12.30pm Celtic v Rangers – David Tindall
5.30pm Bournemouth v Arsenal – Barry Glendenning

Plus, live updates from the 3pm EPL games will be provided by Billy Munday in his clockwatch while Dominic Booth is on hand with live coverage of the first two Afcon last-16 ties (starting at four and seven).

Also, look out for live updates from the concluding Ashes Test and the World Darts Championship final!

European Round-Up

Here are some key European scores from Friday.

Serie A

Cagliari 0-1 AC Milan

La Liga

Rayo Vallecano 1-1 Getafe

Ligue 1

Toulouse 0-3 Lens

In Italy, Rafael Leao celebrated his return from injury with the first Serie A goal of 2026. His 50th-minute winner put Milan top of Serie A by two points although local rivals Inter can return to the summit when they host Bologna on Sunday.

Serie A Table (Top 5):

1. AC Milan – 38 pts

2. Inter Milan – 36 pts

3. Napoli – 34 pts

4. Roma – 33 pts

5. Juventus – 32 pts

In France, Lens extended their advantage at the summit over champions PSG with a convincing three-nil victory at eighth-place Toulouse, who were significantly hindered by being having a player sent off after just 20 minutes. That’s seven straight wins now for Lens. They couldn’t, could they?

Ligue 1 Table (Top 5):

1. Lens – 40 pts

2. PSG – 36 pts

3. Marseille – 32 pts

4. Lille – 32 pts

5. Lyon – 27 pts

Share Your Matchday Experience

Off to a top-flight game this afternoon? Maybe you've embarked on an adventurous journey to the Africa Cup of Nations? Send your thoughts and hopes with us.

Premier League Buildup, La Liga, Africa Cup Knockout Stage and Celtic v Rangers – Matchday Action

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