Match of the week December 24 2007
Portsmouth have an opportunity to end Arsenal's Yuletide cheer when the clubs meet on Boxing Day.
Overview:
The clock is ticking for Harry Redknapp and Pompey as the African Cup of Nations looms ever closer. John Utaka, Sulley Muntari, Lauren, Papa Bouba Diop, Kanu and Djimi Traoré will all depart for Africa's showpiece tournament. Redknapp's team also face Boro, Reading, and Sunderland before the spine of his team takes leave.
It is crucial for the south coasters to capitalise and accumulate as many points as possible before this happens. And the drubbing at Liverpool on Saturday does not bode well.
Arsene Wenger's young team faced their demons over the last fortnight and will be pleased with the results. A battling win over Chelsea and a somewhat providential victory over rivals Tottenham have been the perfect tonic after the slip-up against Boro.
The Gunners' almost perpetual injury woes also seem to be easing. Robin van Persie is approaching full fitness and the skillful, yet brittle midfielders Tomas Rosicky, Alex Hleb and Cesc Fabregas are all free of injury.
Fratton Park is an oppressive venue for visiting clubs which will offer another litmus test for Arsenal's ongoing footballing education.
Pompey have lost just once at home, but it is important to note that they have won just two home matches and drawn five.
Portsmouth key man:
Sulley Muntari has been ever present for Portsmouth this season and has weighed in with four goals. Manuel Almunia made a number of great saves from range against Chelsea and he can expect to be tested again by the Ghanaian's powerful shooting.
Arsenal key man:
The Gunners have so many match-winners in their ranks, but the influence of Manuel Almunia cannot be ignored. Although he remains a little inconsistent, the Spaniard has been instrumental in their last two fixtures prompting Wenger to tell Fabio Capello to call him up to the England squad!
Form guide:
Portsmouth 1 Liverpool 4, Portsmouth 0 Spurs 1, Portsmouth 3 Aston Villa 1 Portsmouth 2 Birmingham 0
Arsenal 2 Spurs 1, Arsenal 1 Chelsea 0, Newcastle 1 Arsenal 1, Middlesbrough 2 Arsenal 1
Prediction:
Arsenal cannot afford any more blips as their epic title battle with Manchester United hots up. The Gunners defeated Pompey in September and therefore have the psychological edge over Redknapp's charges. This coupled with Portsmouth's iffy home form will see the London club claim the three points.
Score
Portsmouth 1 Arsenal 3
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