Hull City 3-2 Portsmouth: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Coral’s post-match review of Hull City 3-2 Portsmouth in the Championship on Saturday, 08 November 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Hull City clinched a thrilling 3-2 victory over Portsmouth at home, a result that might not have been entirely surprising given their recent form. The Tigers have been in good shape, winning three of their last five matches, including this latest triumph. Key moments in the game included early goals from both sides, with Hull City’s Enis Destan and Kyle Joseph finding the net in the first half, while Portsmouth’s Terry Devlin scored twice to keep the visitors in the game. The match was ultimately decided by Joe Gelhardt’s late goal in the 79th minute, showcasing Hull City’s resilience and ability to capitalise on crucial moments.

Portsmouth have struggled recently, with this loss marking their fourth defeat in their last five matches. Despite taking the lead through Devlin’s early strike, they couldn’t hold on against a determined Hull City side. The result further highlights Portsmouth’s difficulties this season, as they continue to search for consistency. For Hull City, this win extends their positive run and keeps them in the hunt for a top spot in the Championship.

Hull City dominated possession with 57% compared to Portsmouth’s 43%, reflecting their control over the game’s tempo. Both teams had an equal number of corners at five each, suggesting a balanced contest in terms of set-piece opportunities. However, Portsmouth were more effective in dribbling, achieving a 63% success rate compared to Hull City’s 36%. The higher number of yellow cards for Portsmouth (3) compared to Hull City (1) indicates a more disciplined approach from the home side, although the game was competitive throughout.

The match was defined by several key moments, starting with Terry Devlin’s early goal for Portsmouth in the 15th minute, which set the tone for an exciting encounter. Hull City responded quickly, with Enis Destan scoring in the 27th minute, followed by Kyle Joseph’s goal just before halftime. The first half also saw Devlin equalise for Portsmouth in added time, keeping the game on a knife-edge. The decisive moment came in the 79th minute when Joe Gelhardt scored the winning goal for Hull City, assisted by Charlie Hughes, securing the victory for the home team.

Hull City lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Ivor Pandur in goal and a back four of Lewie Coyle, John Egan, Charlie Hughes, and Ryan Giles. The midfield was anchored by Amir Hadziahmetovic and Regan Slater, with Joe Gelhardt, Matt Crooks, and Kyle Joseph supporting Enis Destan up front. This setup allowed Hull City to control the game’s tempo and effectively transition from defence to attack, contributing significantly to their victory.

Portsmouth opted for a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Josef Bursik in goal and a back three of Regan Poole, Josh Knight, and Ibane Bowat. The midfield was manned by Terry Devlin, Andre Dozzell, Luke Le Roux, and Jordan Williams, with Conor Chaplin and Josh Murphy playing just behind the lone striker, Colby Bishop. Despite their efforts, this formation struggled to contain Hull City’s attacks, leading to their defeat.

Joe Gelhardt of Hull City was named Man of the Match for his crucial contribution to the game. Scoring the winning goal in the 79th minute, Gelhardt demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure. His involvement in the game was further highlighted by his assist for Kyle Joseph’s goal, making him a standout performer in Hull City’s victory.

Recent Championship matches:

• Win: 3-2 vs Portsmouth (H)
• Loss: 1-2 vs Derby County (A)
• Win: 2-0 vs Norwich City (A)
• Draw: 1-1 vs Charlton Athletic (H)
• Win: 2-1 vs Leicester City (H)

Recent Championship matches:

• Loss: 2-3 vs Hull City (A)
• Draw: 0-0 vs Wrexham (H)
• Loss: 0-4 vs Birmingham City (A)
• Loss: 0-1 vs Stoke City (H)
• Loss: 1-2 vs Coventry City (H)

Currently in 5th place with 25 points, Hull City will face Queens Park Rangers, who are in 16th place with 19 points, on November 22, 2025 at 15:00.

Sitting in 20th place with 14 points, Portsmouth will take on Millwall, who are in 6th place with 25 points, on November 22, 2025 at 15:00.

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.