Chesterfield vs Portsmouth predictions ahead of this clash in the FA Cup on Sunday. Can Chesterfield pick up a result against a side two divisions above them and progress to the second round of the competition or will the visitors get a solid win? Read on for our free betting tips and predictions.
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Match Live Sunday, 5th November at 12:15 pm In:
Chesterfield vs Portsmouth Predictions
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A Tantalising FA Cup Clash: Chesterfield and Portsmouth’s Battle for Supremacy
Key Stats
– Will Grigg has surpassed his previous season’s tally, boasting nine goals in the current campaign.
– Portsmouth have yet to taste defeat in regular time across all competitions, underlining their tenacity.
As the FA Cup’s first-round fixtures roll in, a particularly captivating match-up emerges with National League frontrunners Chesterfield set to host Portsmouth, the current vanguards of League One. This encounter at the SMH Group Stadium is not merely a contest between two sides leading their respective divisions, but also a litmus test of their promotion ambitions and cup aspirations.
Both teams are riding waves of formidable form. Chesterfield, under the aegis of Paul Cook, have vaulted to National League prominence, flaunting a 5-0 drubbing of Kettering that showcased their offensive prowess. Their resiliency is further underscored by their ten occasions of scoring three or more goals this season. Their admirable defensive stint of over seven hours without conceding also paints a picture of a side with remarkable balance.
Our Suggested Best Value Bet For This Match
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Best Value Bet Rationale
This selection is grounded in several compelling aspects of Chesterfield’s recent performances. First, they are riding the crest of a wave, having secured five consecutive wins and managing to score at least twice in their last seven home games. Their attacking prowess is underlined by Will Grigg’s rich vein of form, having scored three in his last two appearances. The team’s cohesion and confidence are encapsulated by their capacity to push past formidable opposition, highlighted by their journey to the third round of the FA Cup in the previous two seasons.
On the other side, Portsmouth, while enjoying an unbeaten league campaign, have displayed vulnerabilities, particularly in their recent 3-2 victory over Reading, a game that exposed some defensive frailties. Additionally, the potential rotation of their squad due to a prioritization of the league promotion effort could see them less settled than usual.
The fact that Chesterfield have fortified their ranks with talent capable of excelling against EFL competition further tilts the scales in favor of a potential upset or at least a draw. Given these factors, the odds of 1/1 for a Chesterfield win or draw not only present value but are indicative of a shrewd wager for those looking to capitalize on the FA Cup’s penchant for drama and surprise.
Portsmouth’s journey has been equally impressive, with John Mousinho’s men carving out a niche as an unbeaten entity in League One. Their resilience was on full display during a stunning comeback against Reading, hinting at a squad with both the spirit and skill to overturn deficits.
The stage is thus set for a duel where Chesterfield’s effervescent attack led by the prolific Will Grigg, who has already netted nine goals this season, will be pitted against Portsmouth’s gritty resilience, exemplified by their leading goalscorer Colby Bishop and his impressive BettingTips4You Expert Rating of 7.50.
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Analysis:
Expected Goals Averages: Chesterfield’s season average of 2.5 goals scored per match and Portsmouth’s 1.7 suggests an offensive edge for the hosts. However, Chesterfield’s defence has conceded 1.3 goals per game, in contrast to Portsmouth’s tighter average of 0.7, highlighting the visitors’ stronger defensive record.
Key Duels and Decisive Areas: The midfield battle could prove decisive, especially between Chesterfield’s playmaker Armando Dobra and Portsmouth’s engine, Ben Stevenson. The flanks will also be crucial, as Dobra’s creative flair meets the defensive solidity of Portsmouth’s fullbacks.
Gameplay Dynamics: Expect Chesterfield to press high and leverage their attacking form, while Portsmouth will likely focus on possession and exploiting the counter. Chesterfield’s recent defensive slips might encourage Portsmouth to commit forward, ensuring an open and dynamic match.
Team Analysis:
Chesterfield’s Pros and Cons: Their high-scoring nature is a definite strength, but defensive lapses present concerns. The Spireites must ensure defensive cohesion to counterbalance their offensive zeal.
Portsmouth’s Pros and Cons: A robust defence and midfield are key strengths, but the injury-enforced absences could disturb their rhythm. Adaptability in adjusting to these changes will be critical.
Managerial Critique: While Paul Cook’s attacking philosophy is commendable, John Mousinho faces scrutiny for Portsmouth’s occasional defensive frailties. His tactical nous in managing game flow and shoring up the defence mid-match requires enhancement.
Predictions:
Prediction 1 (Market Selection): Both Teams to Score Given Portsmouth’s recent pattern, with both teams scoring in nine of their last twelve matches, and Chesterfield’s consistent record of scoring at least twice in their last seven home games, the prediction here is for both teams to find the net.
Prediction 2 (Correct Score Prediction): Chesterfield 2-2 Portsmouth Chesterfield’s goal-scoring form, alongside Portsmouth’s ability to respond under pressure, sets the stage for a high-scoring draw. A 2-2 stalemate is a likely outcome, considering the attacking potential and defensive lapses on both sides.
Prediction 3 (Goalscorer Prediction): Will Grigg to Score Anytime Grigg’s stellar form, with three goals in his last two appearances, makes him a prime candidate to score at least once in the match. His current trajectory indicates he’s in the right form to exploit Portsmouth’s occasional defensive cracks.
Prediction 4 (First Half Result): Draw at Half Time Both teams have displayed the capability to adjust and strike back. This resilience could see them level at the break as they figure each other out in the initial stages.
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