Get ready, Gunners fans! Our quest for a record-extending 15th FA Cup title begins this Sunday at Fratton Park, as we face Portsmouth in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. This match marks the start of a challenging series of four consecutive away games across different competitions. But before we dive in, let's rewind a bit...
Our last visit to the home of the Championship side was six years ago, where we advanced to the quarter-finals on our way to lifting the trophy. Manager Mikel Arteta will be hoping for a repeat performance. The omens are good, as we're on an incredible 22-match unbeaten streak against Portsmouth, stretching back a whopping 67 years to 1958!
Portsmouth's Current Form: A Cup Distraction?
Portsmouth, in their second season back in the second tier, are fighting to maintain their status. Last season, they finished in 16th place, but this time they are in 21st place. Manager John Mousinho, who was given his first managerial role just over three years ago, led them to the League One title in his first full season. However, after a promising start to this campaign, the south-coast club has slipped down the table.
They come into this cup tie with one win in their last four games, which was a 2-1 success over Charlton Athletic, thanks to a 98th-minute winner. Their 2026 began with a 5-0 loss at Bristol City, before their game against Ipswich Town was postponed, leaving them without a fixture for 11 days.
What the Managers Are Saying
Arteta: “We want [more trophies] for sure, that's what we are chasing. That's the purpose of this team.” He emphasized the importance of being judged on current performance and the club's goals.
Mousinho:
