Former Portsmouth fan-favourite Benjani Mwaruwari has issued a firm warning to Arsenal ahead of their highly anticipated FA Cup third-round clash at Fratton Park, insisting that the Premier League giants should not underestimate the atmosphere or the fight of John Mousinho’s side.
Arsenal, currently battling at the top end of the Premier League table, are overwhelming favourites on paper. But Benjani—who remains a hugely admired figure among Portsmouth supporters—believes the Gunners could be in for a shock if they arrive on the south coast expecting a routine victory.
Speaking ahead of the match, the former striker highlighted the unique energy of Fratton Park and the determination of the current Pompey squad.
“Fratton Park is not like any other ground,” Benjani said. “Even Premier League teams feel the pressure there. The fans drive the players, and Portsmouth always rise to the occasion in the FA Cup.”
Benjani, who scored crucial goals during his time with Pompey between 2006 and 2008, also praised the progress under head coach Mousinho, noting that the squad’s discipline, pressing and unity make them a potential problem for any top-flight side.
“Arsenal have quality everywhere, but if Portsmouth are brave and aggressive, they can make it uncomfortable,” he added. “I’ve seen big clubs struggle at Fratton Park. Arsenal need to be ready.”
Portsmouth, currently pushing for promotion in League One, view the fixture as an opportunity to showcase their development under Mousinho, while the home crowd is expected to produce one of the loudest atmospheres of the season.
With both history and passion on Portsmouth’s side, and with Benjani’s warning echoing across the fanbase, the FA Cup clash promises to be an electric encounter under the lights at Fratton Park.
