Derby vs Portsmouth: Predictions, Betting odds, Lineups, Preview

Explore Ladbrokes' detailed preview for Derby vs Portsmouth in the Championship. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 15:00 GMT match.

• Fixture: Derby vs Portsmouth
• Date: Saturday, 20 December 2025
• Kick-off: 15:00 GMT
• Venue: Pride Park

Derby will be looking to bounce back from their recent inconsistent form, particularly at home, where they've struggled to secure wins. With a predicted 3-4-1-2 formation, they'll likely focus on a solid defensive structure while relying on the attacking prowess of Weimann, Agyemang, and Diaz to break down Portsmouth's defence. The absence of Nelson due to injury might affect their backline, but their recent win against Swansea away from home could provide a much-needed boost in confidence.

Portsmouth, on the other hand, have shown resilience with a recent win against Blackburn, despite a string of losses before that. Their 4-2-3-1 formation should allow them to maintain a balanced approach, with Murphy and Lang leading the charge up front. However, the numerous injuries in their squad could impact their performance, but their recent victory might give them the edge they need to challenge Derby on their home turf.

Derby's recent form has been a mixed bag, with only one win in their last four matches. Their home form has been particularly concerning, with a draw against Millwall and a defeat to Leicester. However, their away win against Swansea could provide a glimmer of hope and momentum going into this match. Despite the inconsistency, Derby will be eager to turn their fortunes around and secure a much-needed victory at home.

Recent Championship Results:

• Win: 3-0 vs Sheff Wed (A)

• Draw: 1-1 vs Millwall (H)

• Loss: 1-3 vs Leicester (H)

• Loss: 1-2 vs Middlesbrough (A)

• Win: 2-1 vs Swansea (A)

Portsmouth have had a challenging run of late, with three defeats in their last five games. Their recent victory against Blackburn at home will be a confidence booster, but the losses to Swansea, Bristol City, and Sheffield United highlight their struggles. With a significant number of players sidelined due to injuries, Portsmouth will need to dig deep to maintain their form and challenge Derby away from home.

Recent Championship Results:

• Win: 2-1 vs Blackburn (H)

• Loss: 0-1 vs Swansea (A)

• Loss: 0-1 vs Bristol City (H)

• Loss: 0-3 vs Sheffield Utd (A)

• Win: 3-1 vs Millwall (H)

The head-to-head record between Derby and Portsmouth shows a competitive history, with one decisive victory for Derby and a battling 2-2 in April this year. These games suggest that both teams are fairly matched and capable of producing exciting encounters.

Recent Championship Results

• Portsmouth 2-2 Derby (12 Apr 2025)

• Derby 4-0 Portsmouth (13 Dec 2024)

• Carlton Morris (Knee) – Out

• David Ozoh (Thigh) – Doubt

• Max Johnston (Hamstring) – Doubt

• Lewis Travis (Calf) – Doubt

• Owen Beck (Hamstring) - Out

• Hayden Matthews (Muscle) – Doubt

• Josh Knight (Back) – Doubt

• Regan Poole (Ankle) - Doubt

• Connor Ogilvie (Knee) – Out

• Jacob Farrell (Groin) – Doubt

• Franco Umeh (Leg) – Doubt

• Thomas Waddingham (Hip) – Doubt

• Conor Shaughnessy (Hamstring) – Doubt

• Predicted lineup: Zetterstrom (GK), Clarke (DF), Sanderson (DF), Langas (DF), Ward (MF), Thompson (MF), Clark (MF), Elder (MF), Weimann (MF), Agyemang (AT), Diaz (AT)

Derby's predicted 3-4-1-2 formation will likely see them focus on a strong defensive structure with Langas, Sanderson, and Clarke at the back. The attacking trio of Weimann, Agyemang, and Diaz will be crucial in breaking down Portsmouth's defence and securing a win.

• Predicted lineup: Schmid (GK), Devlin (DF), Matthews (DF), Bowat (DF), Swanson (DF), Swift (MF), Dozzell (MF), Yang (MF), Chaplin (MF), Murphy (MF), Lang (AT)

Portsmouth's predicted 4-2-3-1 formation should allow them to maintain a balanced approach, with Devlin, Matthews, Bowat, and Swanson providing a solid defensive line. The attacking quartet of Min-Hyuk, Chaplin, Murphy, and Lang will be key in challenging Derby's defence and pushing for a positive result.

• Agyemang vs Swanson: Agyemang's pace and finishing will be tested against Swanson's defensive solidity.
• Clark vs Swift: Clark's midfield control will be crucial against Swift's creative influence.
• Weimann (Derby): Weimann's experience and goal-scoring ability will be vital for Derby's attack.
• Chaplin (Portsmouth): Chaplin's creativity and goal threat will be key for Portsmouth's chances.

Derby vs Portsmouth at 15:00 GMT on Saturday, 20 December 2025 isn't being broadcast live for viewers in the UK

Ladbrokes is predicting that the score will be Derby 2-1 Portsmouth in this match

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