What's Happening?
The long-awaited south coast derby between Southampton and Portsmouth is set to take place at St Mary's Stadium, marking the first league meeting between the two clubs in over 13 years. Southampton, under the management of Will Still, has had a challenging start to their return to the second tier, securing only five points from their first four games. Their home performance has been particularly concerning, with two losses in their last three league fixtures. In contrast, Portsmouth, led by John Mousinho, has shown strong form, losing only once in their opening four matches and currently sitting ahead of Southampton in the league standings. Portsmouth's away record has notably improved, matching the points they earned on the road in their last four games with those from their previous 19. The match will be broadcast live on CBS Sports Network and available for streaming on Paramount+ and Fubo.
Why It's Important?
This match is significant for both teams as it could set the tone for their respective seasons in the EFL Championship. For Southampton, a victory could help stabilize their shaky start and boost morale among players and fans. On the other hand, Portsmouth aims to maintain their momentum and continue their strong start to the season. The outcome of this derby could have implications for the league standings and influence the teams' strategies moving forward. Additionally, the match's broadcast on major platforms like CBS Sports Network and Paramount+ highlights the growing interest in EFL Championship games in the U.S., potentially expanding the league's fan base and viewership.
What's Next?
Following this match, both teams will need to assess their performances and make necessary adjustments as they continue their campaigns in the EFL Championship. Southampton will look to address their vulnerabilities, particularly in home games, while Portsmouth will aim to capitalize on their current form and build on their improved away record. The results of this derby could also influence transfer strategies and managerial decisions as the season progresses.
