Wycombe Triumphs Over Portsmouth to Secure FA Cup Fourth Round Spot
What a night it was at Adams Park as Wycombe Wanderers delivered an inspiring performance, defeating Portsmouth 2-0 in the third round of the FA Cup. In front of a spirited home crowd of 5,240, the League One promotion chasers displayed grit, resilience, and sharp attacking play to overcome a Championship side and book their place in the fourth round.
From the very start, Wycombe made their intentions clear. Brandon Hanlan broke the deadlock in the 17th minute, capitalizing on a brilliant run down the right by Gideon Kodua. Kodua’s effort to weave past defenders and deliver a precise assist set the tone for Wycombe's aggressive approach. Hanlan, composed and clinical, slotted the ball home from six yards, sparking wild celebrations among the Chairboys' faithful.
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The lead was doubled just ten minutes later when Sonny Bradley rose to meet Luke Leahy's free-kick, delivering a powerful header past Portsmouth’s goalkeeper Jordan Archer. It was Bradley’s first goal for Wycombe and a particularly sweet one against his former club. At that moment, it was clear that the Chairboys were in command.
Portsmouth, who made nine changes to their starting lineup, struggled to adapt to the freezing conditions and the relentless pressure from Wycombe. Despite some early chances, including a close effort from Paddy Lane and a backheel attempt by Christian Saydee that was heroically cleared off the line, Portsmouth couldn't break through. Wycombe's substitute goalkeeper Nathan Bishop, brought on after an early injury to Shamal George, was rarely troubled.
As the match wore on, Portsmouth's manager, John Mousinho, attempted to inspire a comeback with three halftime substitutions. However, Wycombe's solid defense, marshaled by Bradley and his teammates, held firm. The visitors managed just two shots on target throughout the match, a testament to Wycombe's defensive organization and work rate.
Wycombe's victory was not without drama, including an injury to George and a flurry of late substitutions. But even in the dying moments, as Portsmouth's Tom McIntyre tested Bishop with a long-range effort, Wycombe looked unshaken and determined. The final whistle confirmed a famous victory for the Chairboys, sending them into the fourth round for the first time in four seasons.
This win is a testament to Wycombe's strength and ambition as they continue their FA Cup journey. For Portsmouth, the focus now shifts back to the Championship, where their battle to avoid relegation awaits. Meanwhile, Wycombe’s fans can dream of more giant-killing moments in the next round.
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