The Wembley showpiece – delayed almost a year amid the coronavirus pandemic – went to a penalty shootout, with the Blues falling to defeat.
Defending their 2018-19 title having beaten Sunderland, Kenny Jackett’s side’s grip on the competition finally came to an end at the hands of the League Two Ammies.
Pompey were under siege for the opening 45 minutes, with Craig MacGillivray making several fine saves.
Jackett’s triple substitution helped get the Blues back into the game after the break, with Ronan Curtis spurning two golden chances.
Salford had two big opportunities of their own, though, with MacGillivray again to the rescue.
Neither side could find a breakthrough in extra-time, either, despite both having opportunities.
Just like Pompey’s triumph two years ago, the showdown was decided by a penalty shootout.
However, this time the Blues were on the losing end with Ryan Williams and Ronan Curtis missing the opening two penalties.
Salford won the shootout 4-2, leaving Pompey deflated at full-time.
Here’s how we rated Jackett’s troops throughout the game...
5. Sean Raggett - 6
Had a mixed first half but the moment that stood out was unfortunately when he got caught in possession yet got away with it. Looked more stable in the second period when Lee Brown came on, with Raggett making a big interception when Brown was caught out. Didn't pose a threat from set-pieces like he usually does, either. Photo: Joe Pepler
6. Ryan Williams - 7
Pompey’s brightest player in the first period and was the only one to show any real attacking spark. Had the Blues’ only sort of chance when his cross-shot was deflected and easily gathered by the keeper. Switched to the number-10 role after the break where he continued to be busy. Then had a huge chance saved in extra-time when he should have scored. Photo: Joe Pepler
7. Tom Naylor - 6
Broke up play in the first period but his distribution was also wayward at times. Kept things ticking in the second half, though, always looking to spread the play. Took one for the team when he scythed down Brandon Thomas-Asante and was booked. Then scuffed a good chance in second-half extra-time when the ball was bouncing around from a corner. Photo: Joe Pepler
8. George Byers (replaced by Ben Close 74 mins) - 4
Played a few nice passes in the first half but couldn’t get on the ball enough. Dropped into a holding-midfield role in the second period. However, struggled to impose himself and gave away a silly foul for a free-kick that almost led to a goal. Photo: Joe Pepler