Portsmouth vs Reading Prediction & Betting Tips (12 August)

Portsmouth and Reading are set to clash in the opening round of the 2025/26 EFL Cup on August 12 at Fratton Park, with kickoff scheduled for 21:45 local time. The two sides are no strangers to each other, having met in League One earlier this year where Portsmouth dismantled Reading 4–1. That match showcased the attacking prowess of Colby Bishop, who netted his 16th goal of the season, and the creative spark of Abu Kamara, who provided multiple assists. Portsmouth head coach John Mousinho will be looking to replicate that dominant performance, especially with his side unbeaten in their last five competitive fixtures.

Reading, meanwhile, arrive with a point to prove. Their recent 0–4 loss to Portsmouth in a July friendly exposed defensive frailties, but manager Rubén Sellés has been working to tighten the backline and inject more resilience into the squad. Charlie Savage, who scored Reading’s lone goal in their last competitive meeting, remains a key figure in midfield, while young talents like Kelvin Abrefa and Clinton Mola are expected to feature prominently. Reading’s form has been mixed, with draws against Oxford United and Leyton Orient, but they’ve shown flashes of promise in wins over Charlton and Stevenage.

Portsmouth’s tactical edge lies in their fluid attacking transitions and set-piece efficiency. With Bishop leading the line and Kamara orchestrating from wide areas, they’ve consistently carved open defenses. The return of Marlon Pack adds steel to the midfield, and the defensive pairing of Conor Shaughnessy and Sean Raggett has been reliable under pressure. Reading will need to disrupt Pompey’s rhythm early and capitalize on counterattacks, likely leaning on the pace of Paul Mukairu and the creativity of Lewis Wing to unlock opportunities.

Given the recent head-to-head dominance and current form, a 2–1 scoreline in favor of Portsmouth feels like a calculated prediction. Reading may find the net through a moment of individual brilliance—perhaps from Savage or Wing—but Portsmouth’s cohesion and home advantage should see them through. Expect a competitive match with tactical adjustments, but ultimately, Portsmouth’s sharper edge in both boxes should be the difference.