Matches between these sides were once played in the Premier League. Now, though, West Ham United and Portsmouth will meet in the Championship, as well as in the first round of the 2026/27 EFL Cup.
West Ham United
West Ham United's drop to the Championship is not as high-profile, but it is painful. They have to part with key players who not only do not want to play at a lower level, but whose wages are simply unaffordable there. Crucially, Jarrod Bowen has confirmed that he is staying at the club despite relegation and interest from Premier League clubs. The captain not abandoning ship is hugely important for morale. With him, the Hammers drew 0:0 with Rangers and came close to beating Magdeburg. Overall, they have gone unbeaten in four pre-season matches.
Portsmouth
Pompey are not even dreaming of a return to the Premier League. For two seasons now, their main aim has been to retain their Championship status. They again secured safety a little early this spring, and the team continue under John Mousinho. Portsmouth, by contrast, are without a win in five non-competitive matches (three draws and two defeats). While they are in the Championship, they go out in the first round of the EFL Cup.
West Ham United vs Portsmouth Prediction
Portsmouth will of course try to challenge West Ham United, but over the previous two seasons they have still not learned how to get results away from home — nine wins and nine draws in 46 matches. The hosts will win in normal time.
