12pm KO.

Leeds United face a tricky away fixture on Sunday as they travel to Fratton Park for a Championship clash against Portsmouth. After two dramatic wins against Sunderland and Sheffield United, Daniel Farke?s side was held to a frustrating draw by West Brom last time out. The result kept Leeds top of the table, but with Sheffield United and Burnley still hot on their heels, every point remains crucial. The reverse fixture between Leeds and Portsmouth on the opening day of the season ended in a chaotic 3-3 draw, and both teams will be eager to produce a more controlled display this time around.

Portsmouth may be sitting 17th in the table, but their home form has been a huge factor in keeping them well above the relegation battle. They have picked up 19 points from their last eight home games, the second-best record in the league behind only Leeds. Despite suffering a surprise defeat to bottom-side Luton in their last match, Pompey had been in strong form prior to that, securing three consecutive wins before narrowly losing to Sheffield United and drawing with Burnley. John Mousinho?s side has made Fratton Park a difficult place to visit, and with a passionate home crowd behind them, Leeds can expect a stern test.

Tactically, Mousinho has had to adapt his approach as the season has progressed. Originally favoring a possession-based style, Portsmouth now sit in the bottom two for average possession, instead focusing on direct play and pressing high to force turnovers. They lead the league in possession won in the final third and rank among the best for blocks, showcasing their relentless off-the-ball energy. However, this aggressive style has also left them exposed at times, particularly away from home. At Fratton Park, though, they are more structured, conceding less than a goal per game. Despite struggling to maintain possession, their counter-attacking efficiency and set-piece threat make them a dangerous opponent.

Pascal Struijk, celebrates after scoring from the penalty spot against Portsmouth

Leeds will need to be wary of Portsmouth?s ability to press and disrupt build-up play. Farke acknowledged this in his pre-match press conference, highlighting the need for his side to be prepared for Pompey?s physicality and directness. He singled out veteran winger Josh Murphy and striker Colby Bishop as key threats, both capable of producing goals and assists. With Portsmouth winning more aerial duels than any other side in the division, set-piece defending will be a crucial factor in Leeds securing a positive result. The visitors may also look to bypass the press more frequently, rather than overplaying at the back.

Farke provided positive team news, confirming that everyone who featured against West Brom is available once again. Patrick Bamford has returned to partial training, though he is not yet ready for match action, while Max Wober and Ethan Ampadu remain out but are targeting a return after the international break. The manager also praised Daniel James, who was named Championship Player of the Month, highlighting his relentless work ethic and improved end product. With the fixture congestion beginning to take its toll, Farke may have decisions to make regarding squad rotation, particularly for players like Junior Firpo, Jayden Bogle, and Joel Piroe, who have played significant minutes.

This clash presents a real test of Leeds? promotion credentials. Portsmouth?s high-pressing approach and strong home record mean they will be no pushovers, but their vulnerability when facing top teams could be an opening for Leeds to exploit. If Farke?s side can weather the early storm and impose their attacking quality, they have a strong chance of securing another three points in their push for automatic promotion. With the chasing pack breathing down their necks, Leeds cannot afford to drop points in a fixture that will test both their resilience and tactical adaptability.

MOT.

Credit: motforum.com