Pompey and Sunderland have developed a fierce rivalry over the past couple of seasons.
Both are big clubs who fell on hard times and have a large and passionate fan-base eager to see them escape League One as soon as possible.
Of course, a fixture that normally attracts a healthy crowd will have to take place behind closed doors this weekend.
Each side has had their chance to celebrate after recent fixtures, with the Black Cats enjoying play-off success at the end of the 2018/19 campaign.
That contest, however, came a few weeks after the Blues had memorably battled from behind to enjoy a penalty shoot-out triumph at Wembley in the EFL Trophy final.
Sunderland are currently the only unbeaten side in English football’s third tier, having won four and drawn two of their six league fixtures.
Luke Offord’s own-goal was enough for them to secure the points against Crewe at the Stadium of Light earlier in the week.
The result leaves them sitting fifth in the table, three places ahead of Pompey and with a game in hand over all the sides above them.
TEAM NEWS
Ellis Harrison is out with a hamstring problem, but Jordy Hiwula could make his debut after joining Pompey on a short-term deal.
Sunderland also made a signing this week, bringing in defender Callum McFadzean following his departure from Plymouth.
Jordan Willis could feature for the hosts after recovering from a foot injury, while Tom Flanagan is available following an ankle problem, but Morgan Feeney (hamstring) and Arbenit Xhemajli (knee) are both out.
VIEW FROM THE DRESSING ROOM
Read the thoughts of Joe Gallen and John Marquis ahead of the game or listen to what Jordy Hiwula had to say about joining the Blues.
HEAD TO HEAD
Overall
Pompey: 35 wins
Sunderland: 39 wins
35 draws
At Sunderland
Pompey: 9 wins
Sunderland: 28 wins
17 draws
OFFICIALS
Referee: Robert Lewis
Assistants: Wayne Grunnill and Kevin Mulraine
Fourth Official: James Oldham
MATCH COVERAGE
Supporters in the UK can watch the action live – with graphics, commentary and replays – by purchasing a match pass for £10.
Subscribers will, as usual, be able to listen to listen to live commentary from Andy Moon and Guy Whittingham by signing into their account and visiting the match centre from 2pm.
Please note that subscribers based in the UK and Ireland will still need to purchase a match pass in order to watch the game live.
Click here for more information about using iFollow on a matchday and click here for information on downloading the app, so you can access content on your mobile device.
We will have updates throughout the game on Twitter and the match centre. You can also see behind-the-scenes content on our Instagram story.
There will be post-match reaction on the website, iFollow and our official YouTube channel, with highlights to follow on Sunday.
Local listeners can hear commentary by tuning in to either Express FM or BBC Radio Solent.
BETTING
Sunderland are the 21/20 favourites with Sky Bet to secure all three points, while the Blues can be backed at 5/2.
Click here to find a comprehensive list of odds for Saturday's game. Please gamble responsibly.
ALSO IN LEAGUE ONE
Games kick-off at 3pm unless stated
Gillingham v Fleetwood (1pm)
Blackpool v MK Dons
Burton v AFC Wimbledon
Doncaster v Crewe
Hull v Peterborough
Lincoln v Ipswich
Northampton v Charlton
Shrewsbury v Rochdale
Wigan v Plymouth
LAST MEETING