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On Saturday, October 5, Portsmouth will host Oxford United in the 9th round of the Championship. The match kicks off at 13:30 Central European Time. Here’s the analysis and betting predictions for this encounter, prepared by the Dailysports team of analysts.
Portsmouth
After a 12-year absence, Portsmouth made their return to the Championship at the end of last season. A club that once competed in European tournaments in the early 2000s has endured tough financial times and came close to relegation to League Two.
However, Portsmouth’s squad depth and financial resources remain far below those of other Championship sides. Unsurprisingly, after eight rounds, Portsmouth sits second from bottom, 23rd in the table, with only four points. The "Pompey" have recorded four draws and four losses so far.
In their last match, Portsmouth suffered a crushing 1-6 defeat to Stoke City, following a 0-0 draw with Sheffield United and a 1-2 loss to Burnley.
Oxford United
Like Portsmouth, Oxford United competed in League One last season. The "Yellows" earned promotion to England’s second tier for the first time since the 1998/99 season by defeating Bolton in the League One playoff final.
Oxford United has been one of the standout surprises in the early stages of this Championship campaign. Defying expectations, they’ve amassed 11 points from their first eight matches, currently sitting 11th. Oxford has secured three wins, two draws, and three defeats.
However, Oxford travels to Portsmouth on a three-match winless run. In their previous game, they drew 2-2 with Luton, following a 0-0 stalemate against Burnley and a 1-2 loss to Bristol City.
Match Facts
Oxford United has yet to win an away game in this season’s Championship – they’ve registered one draw and three defeats on the road.
Portsmouth’s defense is the worst in the Championship, having already conceded 19 goals.
Possible Lineups
- Portsmouth: Norris; Rafferty, Raggett, Shaughnessy, Ogilvie; Moxon, Pack; Kamara, Lang, Lane; Bishop
- Oxford United: Cumming; Long, Moore, Brown, Leigh; Brannagan, McGuane; Murphy, Rodrigues, Goodrham; Harris
H2H
Last season, Portsmouth won 2-1 at home against Oxford, while the reverse fixture ended in a 2-2 draw in Oxford.
Portsmouth vs Oxford United prediction
It’s tough to call a clear favorite in this match, especially given Oxford’s poor away form. My bet: both teams to score.
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