EFL Cup: can West Ham keep their run alive? Preview and prediction for the clash against Portsmouth on August 8
On Saturday, August 8, the opening whistle will sound at London Stadium for the first round of the English Football League Cup (Carabao Cup). In this London cup showdown, West Ham United will face Portsmouth. This match marks the official kickoff of the 2026/27 football season for both clubs, so expect both sides to come out firing, eager to set a winning tone ahead of the domestic league campaign.
West Ham United, led by head coach Nuno Espírito Santo, head into the season opener in excellent shape. During a flawless summer pre-season, the Hammers went undefeated, thrashing Stevenage (5-0), taking down Colchester United, and drawing with tough opponents like Scotland's Rangers and Germany's Magdeburg. The roar of a packed home stadium and a significant squad quality advantage mean the hosts are expected to seize the initiative and dictate the tempo from the very first minutes.
Portsmouth arrive as the nominal underdogs, but this side is renowned for their uncompromising cup mentality. The Championship outfit traditionally relies on physical battles, disciplined deep defending, and making the most of set-piece opportunities. At London Stadium, Portsmouth's top priorities will be to withstand West Ham's opening onslaught, keep the midfield play as tight as possible, and look to catch the hosts on rapid counterattacks down the flanks.
The tactical picture is clear: West Ham United will dominate possession, launching sustained pressure on Portsmouth's penalty area, while the visitors focus on a deep defensive block. The attacking quality of the Hammers, their pre-season chemistry, and the backing of the home crowd should all prove decisive in this contest.
Prediction
I expect both teams to deliver entertaining, attacking football—this should be an open and lively encounter. My prediction: total over (2.5) at 1.55
