Portsmouth can climb into the Championship's top six this weekend by exploiting Burnley's dismal home record at Turf Moor. John Mousinho's side have taken 10 points from their last four games, a run that has lifted them to 11th place with 18 points from 12 matches.
They have lost just once in their last eight league outings, a stark turnaround after losing three of their opening four fixtures. Burnley, in contrast, sit third from bottom with a single win all season and have not won a home league game in over 12 months. Their streak of 21 home matches without a victory includes 10 draws and 11 defeats. Burnley's last home league win was a 2-0 victory over Rotherham United on October 3, 2023.
New Manager at Turf Moor
Portsmouth's task comes against a backdrop of change for the hosts. Fabio Celestini has been appointed as Burnley boss following Nicky Hayen's departure after a 4-1 defeat at Lincoln. Celestini said upon his appointment. His first task is to shore up a defence that has conceded a league-high six goals from corners and nine from set pieces overall this season. The 44-year-old Swiss coach, formerly in charge of Lausanne-Sport, has signed a two-year contract at Turf Moor.
Pompey will look to capitalise on that fragility, arriving with confidence after a 2-1 win over Millwall last time out. Thomas Waddingham scored a late winner in that match, continuing a positive run of form that includes victories over Norwich and Sheffield United. Midfielder Owen Moxon is expected to be available after missing the Millwall game with a minor knock.
Set-Piece Opportunity
Burnley's vulnerability from dead-ball situations presents a clear opportunity for Portsmouth. The Clarets' defensive struggles have been a constant theme, contributing to their position just above the relegation zone. Portsmouth's last visit to Turf Moor ended in a 2-1 defeat in September 2024, but the current dynamics are vastly different. Burnley captain Josh Cullen is a doubt for the match after being forced off with an ankle injury during the midweek defeat.
With a goal difference of plus one after scoring 16 and conceding 15, Portsmouth are within seven points of the league summit. Their recent form reads three wins, one draw, and one loss from the last five games. The squad travels north for the 3pm GMT kick-off on Saturday, October 31, aiming to extend Burnley's home misery and continue their own ascent up the standings. Burnley have taken only five points from a possible 18 at home this season.
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