Arsenal travel to Fratton Park this afternoon while they aim to put their recent third-round hoodoo to rest against Championship side Portsmouth.
Mikel Arteta’s side arrives on the south coast following a tactical 0-0 stalemate with Liverpool that maintained their six-point lead at the top of the Premier League. Despite the significance of the title race, Arteta will be wary of Portsmouth’s strong home record and the “magic of the cup” as he looks to guide the 14-time winners into the fourth round.
Arsenal Team News
Mikel Arteta is expected to rotate heavily following a gruelling festive schedule. Riccardo Calafiori and Cristhian Mosquera are both confirmed absentees with muscle and ankle injuries. Additionally, Piero Hincapié is unlikely to feature after sustaining a hamstring injury against Liverpool on Thursday.
On a positive note, Kai Havertz is nearing match fitness and could be involved in the matchday squad. Kepa Arrizabalaga is poised to start in goal, while young left-back Myles Lewis-Skelly could be handed a start in defence. In midfield, Mikel Merino and Christian Nørgaard provide senior experience. The attack is expected to be led by Gabriel Jesus, who will be supported by Gabriel Martinelli and Noni Madueke as the Gunners look to break Portsmouth’s Fratton Park resilience.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup
Arsenal predicted XI: Arrizabalaga; White, Salmon, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Merino, Norgaard, Eze; Madueke, Martinelli, Jesus
When will the match kick off?
The FA Cup third-round fixture takes place at Fratton Park on Sunday, 11 January 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 14:00 GMT.
How to watch Portsmouth vs Arsenal?
The match will be broadcast live in the UK on TNT Sports 1 and discovery+. Coverage begins at 13:30 GMT.
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