Published Jan 8, 7:18pm ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Jan 8, 7:18pm ET
Credit: Shutterstock
An FA Cup classic could be on the cards at Fratton Park on Jan 11, as Premier League leaders Arsenal travel to Championship side Portsmouth. Find our picks here.
It has been a red-hot season to this point for Mikel Arteta’s Gunners, and the team remain in contention for four major honors.
Portsmouth famously won the FA Cup back in 2008, but they have struggled for form this season and sit 21st in the Championship standings.
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|
|---|---|
| Portsmouth | +810 |
| The Draw | +460 |
| Arsenal | -500 |
Portsmouth’s recent history has been mixed, as they have fought financial fights off the field to keep afloat. However, they look to be back on the right track, and will be hoping to avoid relegation from the Championship in 2025-26.
This tie could come at a bad time for the team, as they were easily beaten by Bristol City in their latest outing, while they will also be without Min-Hyeok after their star man was recalled from his loan by Tottenham.
But, it could be worth noting that their home form has been reliable this campaign, with five of their six Championship wins coming at Fratton Park.
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It has been an excellent winter period for Arsenal to this point, as they have stretched their advantage at the top of the Premier League standings.
Mikel Arteta’s side remain in contention for an unprecedented quadruple, with important Champions League and EFL Cup clashes to come before the end of January. However, both of Arsenal’s two defeats in the league this season have come on the road, and they have scored a significantly lower average of 1.4 goals per game in their away fixtures.
Interestingly, Arsenal have suffered third-round exits in the FA Cup in three of the last four seasons.
| TOTAL | Portsmouth | Arsenal | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Games | 16 | 0 | 10 | 6 |
| Goals | 44 | 9 | 35 |
Arsenal have avoided defeat in their last 16 competitive meetings with Portsmouth, which includes wins in each of the last two FA Cup clashes between the teams. However, with the Gunners likely to make changes this weekend, it could be worth taking a chance on Portsmouth on the spread.
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Pick
Portsmouth (+1.75) (-103)
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