Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
The 12th round kicks off at Fratton Park with the home side Portsmouth hosting Sheffield Wednesday. Portsmouth have sunk to the bottom, while the visitors dropped points at home — both sides are in dire need of points.
Portsmouth
Portsmouth failed to take any points back from Wales, as Cardiff City proved superior with a 2:0 victory. The result was obvious as early as the 13th minute when the opponents scored their second goal. Even after that, Portsmouth couldn't seize any momentum, allowing the Welsh side to create numerous chances (2.72 xGA and 24 shots, 10 on target) against goalkeeper Nicolas Schmid, who has become the first-choice keeper in the last three matches. With the Austrian in goal, Portsmouth concede, on average, less than two goals per game. Unfortunately, he likely won't be of help; he suffered a head injury during the second goal by Cardiff City, potentially a concussion. Jordan Archer or Will Norris might need to step up. The attack also needs improvement, averaging just one goal per match.
Sheffield Wednesday
Sheffield Wednesday have also faced issues with finishing in recent games. Only in one of their last four matches have they found the net, scoring twice against Coventry City away. It’s no shock they failed to score against Burnley and Swansea City, but they could have done better against Bristol City, who concede nearly 1.5 goals per game. Sheffield Wednesday rank 13th in expected goals (13.1 xG) yet have scored only 11 goals, placing them 19th in actual goals scored.
Portsmouth vs Sheffield Wednesday Prediction
While five out of six of Portsmouth's away matches have seen the total over 2.5, three out of five at home have seen the total under 2.5. Their last meeting in League One ended 1:0 in favour of Sheffield Wednesday. Defence will outweigh attack — go with the total under.
