Pompey’s latest Papa John’s Trophy campaign begins with a trip to AFC Wimbledon in Southern Group B this evening (7.45pm kick-off).
They have a good recent record in the competition, having lifted the silverware in 2019 and then reached the final the following season.
And while league success is the number one priority, there is a Wembley appearance waiting in the distance.
Sutton and Crystal Palace U21s complete the group, with the former having beaten the latter 3-0 last week.
Tonight’s hosts have made an encouraging start to the campaign, with just one defeat from six League One fixtures.
Mark Robinson’s side have also seen off Charlton and Northampton to reach the third round of the Carabao Cup.
They now have a mouth-watering trip to Premier League giants Arsenal to look forward to in a couple of weeks.
The most recent meeting between the teams is also the only time that the Blues have appeared at the new Plough Lane.
Lee Brown bagged a brace and Ronan Curtis was also on target, as Danny Cowley’s side fought from behind to secure a 3-1 victory back in May.
In the event of tonight’s game finishing level after 90 minutes, both sides will collect a point. A penalty shoot-out will then be held, with the winners earning a bonus point.
TEAM NEWS
Pompey are likely to make a number of changes, with Miguel Azeez, Gavin Bazunu, Ronan Curtis and Joe Morrell all away on international duty.
Mahlon Romeo and Louis Thompson could both make their debuts, while Jayden Reid (knee) and Liam Vincent (shin) are injured.
The hosts are without the injured defensive duo of Dan Czoka (shoulder) and Paul Osew (ankle).
VIEW FROM THE DRESSING ROOM
Read the thoughts of Danny Cowley ahead of the game.
HEAD TO HEAD*
Overall
Pompey: 19 wins
Wimbledon: 14 wins
9 draws
At Wimbledon
Pompey: 7 wins
Wimbledon: 10 wins
4 draws
*Includes matches against Wimbledon FC
TICKETS
Pompey fans should note that away fans will not be able to purchase tickets at Plough Lane this evening.
Fans attending the game can read a matchday guide from AFC Wimbledon by clicking here.
OFFICIALS
Referee: Darren Drysdale
Assistants: Daniel Cook and Anthony Da Costa
Fourth Official: Andy Bennett
MATCH COVERAGE
Supporters at home and abroad can watch the contest live by purchasing an iFollow match pass and visiting the match centre.
Domestic iFollow subscribers can also enjoy audio commentary from Andrew Moon and Guy Whittingham, but will need to purchase a match pass if they want to watch the game.
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 and our official YouTube channel, with highlights to follow on Wednesday.
Local listeners can hear commentary by tuning in to either Express FM or BBC Radio Solent.
BETTING
Pompey are the 13/8 favourites with VBET to secure all three points, while the hosts can be backed at 9/5.
Click here to find a comprehensive list of odds for this evening's game. Please gamble responsibly.
ALSO IN PAPA JOHN’S TROPHY
Doncaster v Rotherham (7pm)
Swindon v Arsenal U21 (7pm)
Colchester v Gillingham (7.30pm)
LAST MEETING