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The FA Cup third round brings an exciting clash as Wycombe Wanderers of League One host Portsmouth from the Championship at Adams Park on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 7.45 PM UK time. This match promises to be a fascinating encounter, with Wycombe aiming to reach the fourth round for the first time since 2020-21, while Portsmouth look to make their first fourth-round appearance since 2019-20. Both teams have contrasting priorities this season, but the magic of the FA Cup ensures that this will be a fiercely contested battle.

Wycombe, currently second in League One, are focused on securing promotion, while Portsmouth are fighting to avoid relegation from the Championship. However, the FA Cup offers a welcome distraction and a chance for both sides to make headlines. Will Wycombe’s home advantage prove decisive, or can Portsmouth’s Championship quality shine through?

Team Analysis:

Wycombe Wanderers:

Wycombe Wanderers, known as The Chairboys, have been in impressive form in League One this season, sitting second in the table with 15 wins, 6 draws, and 4 losses from 25 matches. However, their recent form has been patchy, with just one win in their last four league games. A 1-0 defeat to Huddersfield Town on Tuesday was a setback, but they remain firmly in the promotion race.

In the FA Cup, Wycombe have navigated past non-league York City and Wealdstone to reach the third round for the first time in four years. Manager Matt Bloomfield is likely to rotate his squad, with promotion being the primary focus. Key players like Garath McCleary, Matt Butcher, and Brandon Hanlon could feature, giving some of the regulars a rest.

Defensively, Wycombe have been solid, but they will miss Jasper Pattenden, Sam Vokes, and Kieran Sadlier due to injuries. Alex Hartridge returns from suspension, providing a boost to the backline. Wycombe’s last FA Cup third-round appearance ended in a 4-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in 2021, and they will be eager to make amends this time around.

Portsmouth:

Portsmouth, who won the League One title last season, are struggling in the Championship, sitting just above the relegation zone on goal difference. Their form has been inconsistent, particularly away from home, where they are on an eight-game winless run (2 draws, 6 losses). A 1-0 defeat to Sunderland on Sunday highlighted their struggles on the road.

Manager John Mousinho faces a selection headache, with several key players unavailable. Marlon Pack, the captain, is suspended after his red card against Sunderland, while Regan Poole, Conor Shaughnessy, and Kusini Yengi are among the injured. However, Portsmouth have depth in their squad, and players like Tom McIntyre, Jordan Williams, and Christian Saydee are expected to step up.

Portsmouth’s last FA Cup third-round appearance ended in a 2-0 defeat to Arsenal in 2020. They will be determined to make a deeper run this season, but their focus on Championship survival could lead to squad rotation. Their 3-1 victory over Wycombe at Adams Park in March 2024 will give them confidence, but replicating that performance will be a challenge.

Head-to-Head and Past Encounters:

The rivalry between Wycombe and Portsmouth has been evenly contested in recent years. In their last 10 meetings, Wycombe have won 3, Portsmouth 4, and 3 have ended in draws. Portsmouth’s 3-1 victory at Adams Park in March 2024, courtesy of a Colby Bishop brace and a Christian Saydee goal, is their most recent success. However, Wycombe’s 2-0 home win in December 2022 shows they are capable of overcoming their Championship opponents.

Prediction:

This match is difficult to call, given the contrasting form and priorities of both teams. Wycombe’s home advantage and strong league position give them an edge, but Portsmouth’s Championship quality could prove decisive. Expect a tight game, with Wycombe likely to edge it.

Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: Wycombe Wanderers 2-1 Portsmouth

Betting Tips:

• Both Teams to Score: Yes
• Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over
• Anytime Goalscorer: Brandon Hanlon (Wycombe Wanderers)
• Hot Stat: Portsmouth are winless in their last 8 away matches across all competitions.

Possible Lineups:

Wycombe Wanderers: Ravizzoli; Skura, Hartridge, Bradley; McCleary, Butcher, Scowen, Harvie; Kodua; Lubala, Hanlon
Portsmouth: Schmid; Williams, McIntyre, Atkinson, Ogilvie; Kamara, Moxon; Devlin, Lane, Ritchie; Saydee

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