Portsmouth vs Sunderland Predictions

Portsmouth vs Sunderland Predictions for this Championship fixture. Sunderland will look to maintain their perfect start to the Championship season as they travel to the South Coast to face Portsmouth on Saturday. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.

Championship: | Aug 31, 2024 at 3pm UK at Fratton Park

Portsmouth vs Sunderland Predictions

Can Sunderland’s Perfect Start Survive the Challenge at Fratton Park?

• Sunderland have averaged 2.3 goals per game in their opening three Championship fixtures.
• Portsmouth have scored five goals in three matches, indicating their capability to challenge defensively solid teams.
• Sunderland have yet to concede a goal in the league this season, but Portsmouth have been involved in a 3-3 draw and a 2-2 draw, showing they can find the net even against strong defences.

Best Bet

As Portsmouth prepare to face Sunderland on the South Coast, both teams are at contrasting points in their Championship campaigns. Sunderland are riding high at the top of the table, having won all three of their opening matches, while Portsmouth are still searching for their first victory after three consecutive draws. With Portsmouth yet to experience the sweet taste of victory and Sunderland looking to extend their perfect start, this encounter promises to be a fascinating clash of contrasting fortunes.

The most compelling betting angle for this match is backing both teams to find the net. Despite Sunderland’s impressive defensive record—three consecutive clean sheets—their journey to Portsmouth is unlikely to be straightforward. Portsmouth have shown they can be dangerous in attack, netting five times in their first three games, with Christian Saydee leading the charge with two goals to his name.

Sunderland’s early-season solidity at the back will be tested by a Portsmouth side desperate to secure their first win. While Sunderland’s defence has yet to be breached in the league, the absence of key defender Aji Alese due to injury and Dan Neil’s suspension could leave gaps for Portsmouth to exploit. Pompey’s attacking intent, highlighted by their 4.3 shots on target per game, suggests they have the capability to break through Sunderland’s backline, particularly with the likely return of Conor Shaughnessy to bolster their ranks.

Moreover, Sunderland’s offensive prowess cannot be overlooked. The Black Cats have been clinical in front of goal, averaging 2.3 goals per game, and have displayed a balanced attack with goals coming from a variety of sources, including Luke O’Nien and Eliezer Mayenda, each contributing two goals thus far. Their capacity to score from both inside and outside the box—having netted one goal from outside the box—demonstrates their versatility in attack.

Portsmouth, though not as prolific, have managed to find the back of the net regularly enough to suggest they can trouble Sunderland. The hosts’ ability to create big chances, averaging 1.7 per game, will be crucial if they are to score against a well-organised Sunderland defence. The visitors, meanwhile, are likely to continue their scoring form, given their efficiency in converting opportunities into goals, supported by their average of 13.3 shots per game.

As BettingTips4You.com expert Steve Harrington summarises: “Both teams have the attacking quality to break down the opposition defences, and while Sunderland have been watertight so far, Portsmouth’s home advantage and desperation for a win could see them nick a goal. Conversely, Sunderland’s form in front of goal makes it hard to see them being kept at bay for 90 minutes.”

Correct Score Prediction: Portsmouth 1-2 Sunderland

Given the above analysis, a 2-1 victory for Sunderland seems a likely outcome. While Portsmouth should be able to breach Sunderland’s defence at least once, the away side’s superior attacking quality is expected to shine through. Sunderland’s ability to find the back of the net multiple times has been evident in their recent performances, and despite Portsmouth’s best efforts, they might find themselves on the losing side of a narrow contest.

The prediction of a 2-1 scoreline aligns well with the expectation of both teams scoring. Sunderland’s higher quality and form make them favourites, but Portsmouth’s ability to compete, particularly at home, should ensure they are not easily swept aside. Sunderland’s attacking depth, coupled with Portsmouth’s vulnerabilities, particularly in defence where they have conceded five goals in three games, supports this forecast.

Subscribe To Our Newsletter For Exclusive Tips

Want to have exclusive tips from experts tipsters delivered right into your inbox? Subscribe Now To Our Newsletter. We will never spam, we fully respect your privacy!

Selected Bookmakers Offers