Watford will welcome Portsmouth to Vicarage Road for their Championship clash on Thursday, 26 December. View our free Watford vs Portsmouth predictions below.
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Watford vs Portsmouth predictions: Hosts to claim all the spoils
Key stats
- Watford are unbeaten in 10 home games this season (W8, D2).
- In contrast, Portsmouth managed one win in 10 matches away from home.
- At least three goals were scored in five of Portsmouth's last six games.
- Each of Watford's last three matches featured goals at both ends.
Correct score prediction: Watford 2-1 Portsmouth
Although both teams have not met in almost 13 years, it is fair to point out that Portsmouth have lost their last three trips to this stadium. Moreover, Watford have been one of the best home teams in the Championship, earning 26 points from a possible 30 at Vicarage Road. Given Portsmouth's struggles on the road, we are fairly confident that the Hornets will emerge victorious.
Pre-game odds and win probability: Bookmakers favour Watford
- HOME: 17/20 (1.85) – 54.1%
- DRAW: 13/5 (3.60) – 27.8%
- AWAY: 3/1 (4.00) – 25%
*Odds from Ladbrokes, subject to change
This has not been a particularly pleasant campaign for Portsmouth. John Mousinho's troops are 20th in the 24-team Championship with a 4-8-8 win-draw-loss record in 20 games.
On the other hand, Watford are 12 places above their hosts, having won 10 of 21 league matches. They are one of four teams that have not lost at home this season.
Bearing that in mind, it is unsurprising that Watford are the expected winners at 17/20 (1.85). Teams with these odds usually have a 54.1% probability of winning.
Don’t forget to check out more of our best betting tips and predictions after you’ve dissected our Watford vs Portsmouth predictions.
We have also pointed out that five of Portsmouth's last six games went north of the 2.5-goal threshold. Keeping in mind that over three goals were scored on average in the last six clashes between these teams, over 2.5 total goals has an appealing look at 4/5 (1.80). That one has a 55.6% chance of landing.
Most recent H2Hs: First encounter in over a decade
The most recent clash between Watford and Portsmouth took place in January 2012, and both teams have met only six times in the last two decades. Interestingly, the home side won each of those six clashes.
Watford preview: Looking to maintain their unbeaten run at home
Coach Tom Cleverley will be pleased to have a healthy group of players from which to choose, as Watford have no injured or suspended players ahead of their Boxing Day clash.
Predicted lineup: Bachmann (GK), Larouci, Pollock, Porteous, Ngakia, Dwomoh, Vata, Chakvetadze, Sissoko, Baah & Bayo.
England Championship 03/05/25
D
Sheff Wed
1
Watford
1
England Championship 26/04/25
L
Blackburn
2
Watford
1
England Championship 21/04/25
L
Portsmouth
1
Watford
0
England Championship 18/04/25
L
Burnley
2
Watford
1
England Championship 12/04/25
L
West Brom
2
Watford
1
Portsmouth preview: Hoping to improve their fortunes on the road
On the other hand, Jordan Williams and Ibane Bowat will not be available for the visiting team due to injuries.
Predicted lineup: Schmid (GK), Swanson, Pack, Towler, Ogilvie, Dozzell, Potts, Murphy, Lang, Ritchie & Bishop.
England Championship 03/05/25
D
Hull
1
Portsmouth
1
England Championship 26/04/25
D
Sheff Wed
1
Portsmouth
1
England Championship 21/04/25
W
Watford
0
Portsmouth
1
England Championship 18/04/25
W
Norwich
3
Portsmouth
5
England Championship 12/04/25
D
Derby
2
Portsmouth
2
Player to watch: Vakoun Bayo
As it stands, only two players have scored more goals than Vakoun Bayo in the Championship. The former Celtic player has put in some impressive performances in recent weeks, scoring nine times in his last 11 appearances for club and country. Bayo will be called upon to provide the goals on Boxing Day.