John Mousinho’s men bounced back from a dreadfully dull first half to raise their game in the second half and should really have taken the lead through Makenzie Kirk.
However, the striker, marking his full debut, failed to convert substitute Josh Murphy’s cross from five yards out – and moments later Stoke claimed the decisive goal after heading Sorba Thomas’ cross into his own net.
The Blues failed to respond to that 71st-minute set-back and Stoke cantered to victory. And here are our Pompey player ratings...
13. Colby Bishop (9) of Portsmouth shoots at goal as Ashley Phillips (26) of Stoke City makes a challenge ge during the EFL Sky Bet Championship match between Portsmouth and Stoke City at Fratton Park, Portsmouth, England on 25 October 2025.
Colby Bishop tussles with Stoke's Ashley Phillips at Fratton Pack. Picture: Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages Photo: Graham Hunt
14. Josh Murphy - 7
(Replaced Minhyeok Yang on 67 mins) The one shining light and showed what Pompey had been missing. Should have been a gamer changer, but Kirk failed to convert his wonderful cross from close range. Photo: Bryn Lennon
15. Terry Devlin - 6
(Replaced Jordan Williams on 67 mins) Given his usual outing from the bench and provided his usual energy. Photo: Simon Roe
