In the highly anticipated FA Cup fixture, Premier League frontrunners Arsenal are poised to challenge Championship outfit Portsmouth. This encounter represents a pivotal moment for both clubs: Arsenal, enjoying a six-point lead in the top flight, seek to advance their cup campaign, while Portsmouth, despite their current struggles in the second division, aims to conjure a historic upset reminiscent of their 2008 FA Cup triumph. Football enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting this clash, which promises an intriguing battle of strategy and skill on the pitch.
FA Cup Third Round: Arsenal Journeys to Portsmouth for Crucial Match
On a brisk Sunday, January 11, 2026, football fans will turn their attention to Fratton Park in Portsmouth, where a significant FA Cup third-round match is scheduled. Kick-off is set for 2:00 PM GMT, featuring the formidable Arsenal, currently dominating the Premier League, against a determined Portsmouth side from the Championship. This match marks the beginning of a demanding week for the Gunners, as they will swiftly transition to a Carabao Cup fixture against Chelsea. For those eager to witness the action, live coverage in the UK begins at 1:30 PM GMT on TNT Sports 1, with streaming options available via discovery+ for subscribers.
The team news reveals several key concerns for Portsmouth manager, who faces a challenge with numerous players potentially sidelined. Tottenham loanee Yang Min-Hyeok has been recalled, and a host of first-team regulars, including forwards Colby Bishop, Florian Bianchini, Josh Murphy, Callum Lang, and Thomas Waddingham, along with midfielders Marlon Pack and Márk Kosznovszky, are all nursing doubts. The defensive line also sees potential absences with Josh Knight, Connor Ogilvie, and Hayden Matthews. In contrast, Arsenal's Mikel Arteta contends with the continued unavailability of defensive duo Cristhian Mosquera and Riccardo Calafiori, which might necessitate strategic adjustments. Piero Hincapie is also a doubt following his early exit against Liverpool, while Max Dowman remains out. However, the potential inclusion of players like Christian Norgaard, Ebere Eze, and Gabriel Jesus could provide a fresh dynamic to Arsenal's starting lineup. The predicted starting XIs suggest a competitive formation for both sides, with Schmid leading Portsmouth's goal and Kepa for Arsenal, promising an exciting and unpredictable encounter.
A Test of Mettle: Can Underdogs Rise or Will Favorites Prevail?
This FA Cup tie serves as a fascinating microcosm of football itself: the romance of the cup, where underdogs dare to dream, clashes with the relentless pursuit of glory by established giants. For Portsmouth, it's a chance to reignite their season and write another chapter in their FA Cup history, potentially providing a much-needed morale boost. For Arsenal, it's an opportunity to maintain momentum across competitions, rotate key players, and deepen their squad's experience ahead of a packed fixture list. Regardless of the outcome, such encounters underscore the unpredictable beauty of football, reminding us that every match holds the potential for unexpected narratives and memorable performances.