Fans around England, especially in the south, are preparing to tighten their seatbelts for a heavily heated encounter this weekend. Southampton vs Portsmouth is back!
What is the South Coast Derby?
The formally known 'South Coast Derby' is a fierce rivalry between both Southampton and Portsmouth. It is undoubtedly one of English football’s most intense and storied rivalries.
Separated by just 19 miles along England’s southern coastline, these two clubs represent more than just footballing pride, they symbolize a deep-rooted cultural and historical rivalry that stretches back generations.
Although perhaps various football fans have forgotten about this rivalry from the lack of times both teams have previously played against eachother over the years, it will certainly prove to not be forgotten about any time soon.
As repeated, although this match is not contested as frequently as some other derbies due to the teams often playing in different divisions, whenever Southampton and Portsmouth meet, the atmosphere is electric. The passion from both sets of fans is palpable, with each derby fiercely battled on and off the pitch. For many supporters, a win in this fixture means more than their league position or cup progression.
Where and when does the game start and Kick-Off?
The derby begins at St Marys (Southampton's ground) at 12am on Sunday the 14th of September. The game will be televised on many different broadcasting channels. Most notably being Sky Sports, ITV1, NOW UK, STV and Sky Sports+.
Previous Club History
Historically, both clubs have enjoyed highs and endured lows. Portsmouth famously lifted the FA Cup in 2008, however more recently, they have experienced financial struggles and common lower-league football, while Southampton have established themselves as a consistent presence in the Premier League in recent years.
But after Portsmouth survived their first season being in the Championship for 13 years, and Southampton finishing rock bottom in the Premier League for the second year running, the two collide early in the EFL Championship for the 25/26 season. But regardless of form or league status, the derby always feels like an equal battle — raw, emotion, and unpredictability.
Why is the rivalry so fierce?
The hatred between Southampton and Portsmouth goes beyond football — it's rooted in historical, economic, and cultural competition dating back over a century.
In the early 20th century, both cities were major naval and shipbuilding hubs. Portsmouth was home to the Royal Navy, while Southampton grew as a commercial port. This led to natural tensions, as both cities competed for maritime dominance, jobs, and investment. During World War II, a belief took hold that Southampton dockworkers went on strike while Portsmouth faced bombing — a claim that remains controversial but added fuel to the fire.
In football terms, the rivalry was solidified in the post-war years. As the clubs grew, so did the hostility among supporters, especially during the 1970s and 80s when both teams were in close competition. Violent clashes between fans further deepened the divide, and fixtures became known not just for the football, but for the tribal atmosphere surrounding them.
This historical backdrop has ensured that every match is more than just a game — it’s a battle for pride, identity, and regional bragging rights.
When was the last time they both met?
The two sides' most recent clash came in the 2019–20 Carabao Cup, where Southampton ran out 4–0 winners at Fratton Park, their first win there in 35 years, reigniting the rivalry for a new generation of fans. With Portsmouth fans now having their turn to cause away fan ecstasy at St Marys, Southampton will be wanting to continue to add to their current winning streak at their home turf.
While football has changed over the years, this Derby remains a gritty, passionate fixture that continues to capture the hearts of both cities. For Southampton and Portsmouth fans, it’s more than just a game — it’s a battle for southern supremacy and royalty.
What can we expect this weekend?
With Southampton having new management under Will Still, it has been fairly up and down during the start of the campaign, with their previous home match being a 2-1 loss to Stoke City. However, they have signed plenty of players ready to face Pompey on Sunday. Most notably and recently being Mads Roerslev from Brentford, Finn Azaz from Middlesborough, Caspar Jander from FC Nurnberg, Tom Fellows from West Brom, Elias Jelert from Galatasaray, and Leo Scienza from FC Heidenheim.
However, they face a strong and tough nut to crack in Portsmouth this season, already having 2 clean sheets in 4 league games this season. Their new signing Adrian Segecic has been an immediate hit for them this season up the other end of the pitch. Already scoring 2 goals in the Championship in his first season in English football. He signed from Sydney FC, scoring 13 goals in 24 A-League appearances.
Ahead of this game, Portsmouth currently sit higher than their disliked opponents, as they currently are at 8th place with 7 points, with Southampton being at 13th with 5 points.
My prediction
In my opinion, I feel like although Portsmouth fans and players are in the better form, I feel as though the home support with energise the Southampton players enough to get the game just over the line. I think 2-1 to the Saints.
No matter where you are in the world you are, all set your alarms for this match because it will be sure to an exciting game.
