Get ready for a thrilling FA Cup clash as Arsenal kicks off their campaign at Portsmouth’s Fratton Park this Sunday at 2 PM UK time. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can the Gunners maintain their 67-year unbeaten streak against Pompey, or will the underdogs pull off a historic upset? This isn’t just another match—it’s the start of Arsenal’s quest for their 15th FA Cup title, adding another chapter to their storied legacy. And this is the part most people miss: Portsmouth, despite their struggles in the Championship, have a knack for rising to the occasion on home turf, having already toppled three of the league’s top five teams this season.
Arsenal’s journey begins with the first of four consecutive away games across different competitions, a grueling test of their depth and resilience. The last time they visited Fratton Park in 2020, they advanced to the quarter-finals en route to lifting the trophy under Mikel Arteta’s early leadership. Arteta himself is clear about the team’s ambitions: ‘We want [more trophies] for sure, that’s what we are chasing.’ But Portsmouth, managed by John Mousinho, are no pushovers. Mousinho, who led Pompey to the League One title in his first full season, sees this as a ‘massive opportunity’ to showcase his side’s spirit against one of the world’s best teams.
Portsmouth’s season has been a rollercoaster. After a promising start, they’ve slipped to 21st in the Championship, just one point above the relegation zone. Their recent form is patchy, with only one win in their last four games, though that victory came at home against Charlton Athletic. Injuries have also taken a toll, with key players like Mark Kosznovszky, Hayden Matthews, and Josh Knight sidelined. Yet, Mousinho remains optimistic, hoping captain Marlon Pack and striker Colby Bishop can return to bolster their lineup.
Here’s the kicker: While Arsenal boasts a dominant head-to-head record, having not lost to Portsmouth since 1958, the FA Cup is notorious for its upsets. Pompey’s fans, known for their passionate support, will be roaring their team on, aiming to disrupt Arsenal’s rhythm with relentless pressure and a disciplined defense. As Adrian Clarke notes, Portsmouth’s 4-2-3-1 formation relies heavily on their wingers and direct long passes—a style that could exploit Arsenal’s vulnerabilities, especially in defending crosses.
Arsenal, meanwhile, has their own injury concerns. Piero Hincapie is a doubt after coming off against Liverpool, while Riccardo Calafiori and Cristhian Mosquera remain sidelined. Kai Havertz, however, could feature as he recovers from a knee injury. Arteta’s side will need to be at their best to avoid a third consecutive third-round exit, a fate they haven’t suffered since the 1940s.
Thought-provoking question: With Portsmouth’s home advantage and Arsenal’s recent struggles in the FA Cup, could this be the year the 67-year curse finally breaks? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
For those tuning in, the match will be officiated by Tony Harrington, who has overseen two Arsenal victories this season. If the game ends in a draw, extra time and penalties await—with no VAR to intervene. You can catch live commentary on Arsenal.com and the official app, or check local broadcasters for live coverage. Will history repeat itself, or will Portsmouth write a new chapter? Don’t miss this FA Cup showdown!
