This weekend, Norwich City travel to Portsmouth, determined to break a troubling trend against the south coast club. The Canaries are still feeling the sting of a 5-3 defeat in their last league encounter and are eager to secure their first victory over Portsmouth since April 1969, a year when they last managed to win successive matches against them. Read more about Mahovo Targets Norwich City Comeback Amid Left-Back Battle.
Historically, Norwich have fared reasonably well on their trips to Fratton Park, remaining unbeaten in their last three league visits, which include one victory and two draws. Continuing this trend would enable them to achieve an unprecedented unbeaten streak of four away games against Portsmouth in the Football League, highlighting the competitive nature of this fixture. Read more about Norwich Target Arsenal's Rising Star Dan Casey.
Portsmouth, however, have established themselves as a formidable opponent at home. They have not lost their opening match of the season at Fratton Park in the last 11 campaigns, boasting a record of six wins and five draws since their 1-4 defeat to Oxford United during the 2013-14 season. Notably, in the last three seasons, they have started their campaigns with a draw—a trend they will be keen to overturn against Norwich. Read more about Norwich Target Tverdokhlib as Leicester Join Race.
For the Canaries, their recent record in opening away fixtures leaves much to be desired. They have won only one of their last eight opening away games in league campaigns, with three draws and four losses marring their performance. Their solitary victory on the road in a season opener came during the 2020-21 season, where they narrowly defeated Huddersfield Town 1-0.
Additionally, Norwich's struggles in finding the net during away games are a significant concern. Last season, the club managed to score only 19 goals in their Championship away matches, marking their lowest tally at this level since the 2007-08 season. To emerge victorious against Portsmouth, the Canaries will need to enhance their attacking efficiency significantly.
As both teams prepare for this crucial encounter, the stakes are high. Norwich are eager to overcome their recent history against Portsmouth, while the home side aims to uphold their impressive record on opening day fixtures. Fans can expect an exciting match as the Canaries strive to kick off the season on a positive note.