Portsmouth vs Sheffield United: who will escape the relegation zone?
Fratton Park is set to host a clash between two teams who could certainly use a few extra points right now. Portsmouth welcome Sheffield United, and although more was expected from the visitors before the start of the season, both clubs currently find themselves in the lower half of the table. Here, it will not be big names but character, concentration and the ability to make the most of their chances that come to the fore.
Portsmouth: they need to step up at home
The hosts head into the match after a goalless draw with Southampton — 0:0. Before that, Portsmouth drew 2:2 with Blackburn, beat Cardiff 2:0, but also suffered defeats against Derby and Bristol City. Having played seven matches, the team have collected eight points and are still unable to secure a comfortable position in the Championship.
Portsmouth's main advantage is their home atmosphere. At Fratton Park, the fans know how to create pressure, and that could prove especially important against opponents going through a difficult spell. The hosts need to play aggressively but without unnecessary haste: an early goal could significantly change the course of the match.
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There are also some selection concerns. Josh Murphy and Mark Kosnovsky are listed among the injured, while the involvement of several other players remains doubtful. This could affect the options in attack and the depth of the bench.
Sheffield United: time to end the poor run
The visitors are in an even more difficult situation. Sheffield United have made a far from ideal start to the season. After eight rounds, the team have nine points and sit 18th. In their last five league matches, the Blades have recorded just one win and suffered four defeats. Their recent setbacks include losses to Norwich (1:3), Wolverhampton (0:1) and Fleetwood (0:1).
The problem is not limited to the results but also lies in the team's inconsistency. Sheffield United are capable of creating opportunities going forward, yet they regularly make mistakes that they are punished for. Nine goals in eight rounds is a tally they will clearly want to improve.
The squad situation also deserves close attention: defenders Harrison Burrows and Femi Seriki are among those sidelined with injuries. If their absences are confirmed, the visitors will need to be particularly disciplined on the flanks and avoid needless turnovers.
The most recent head-to-head meetings add another layer of intrigue. In February 2026, Sheffield United beat Portsmouth 1:0 away from home. However, the teams' current positions mean the visitors cannot be considered clear favorites.
I expect a cautious opening, with both sides primarily focused on avoiding mistakes. Portsmouth will look to draw energy from the stands and apply pressure in attack, while Sheffield United will try to exploit the space in behind and attack quickly in transition.
The cost of a mistake is too high for either team, so an open game from the first whistle is unlikely. Even so, the hosts look capable of avoiding defeat at the very least.
My prediction: both teams to score — yes.
