The League One standings show Pompey sitting just two points outside the automatic promotion places with nine games remaining.
But Kenny Jackett knows they have to raise their game if they are to secure a guaranteed Championship berth.
Defeat at Peterborough was followed by a Fratton draw with Fleetwood in the two most recent fixtures.
So Jackett wants to see his side make a return to winning ways when they host Accrington this weekend.
The Blues boss said: “You look at the league table after that point gained on Tuesday and we’re in a really good position.
“There are a number of sides really close together and we’re right in there, so have to be optimistic about our chances.
"Let’s realise how open it is and also address how we can play at our best against Accrington on Saturday."
“We’ve worked hard to get this opportunity, but know that we have to get our form right – we can play better than we’ve shown in the past two games.
“So let’s realise how open it is and also address how we can play at our best against Accrington on Saturday.
“When the number of matches gets down to single figures, they all become really big and you need to win the next one.
“Our opponents beat us deservedly when we last met, but this will be a different day and we have to set our standards high.”
This weekend’s EFL fixtures are set to go ahead as planned, despite the coronavirus outbreak that has dominated news headlines.
Jackett said: “We’re taking a common sense approach – anyone showing symptoms should report it and we’re minimising contact with things like handshakes.
“There’s a bigger picture and that’s people’s safety. We’ll be guided as a club by the footballing authorities and the government.
“Whether games have to be postponed or played behind closed doors we will see, but it’s hard to predict because the situation is constantly changing.
“You have to adapt to the circumstances, but I stress again that the wellbeing of supporters is paramount and football comes second.”