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...
13. Marcus Harness (replaced Jordy Hiwula 46 mins) - 5
Gave Pompey more width that they lacked in the first period. Didn’t quite take the game by the scruff of the neck like he’s capable of, though, and lacked a goalscoring threat. In a bad run of form and needs to recapture his sparkle. Photo: Joe Pepler
14. Lee Brown (replaced Charlie Daniels 46 mins) - 7
Offered a lot more down the left than his counterpart when brought on at the break. Always an outlet but crossing wasn’t quite up to the quality required. Then went agonisingly close in the last five minutes when he volleyed agonisingly wide. Defensively also sound but collected a late booking for a cynical drag back on Brandon Thomas-Asante. Photo: Dennis Goodwin
15. Ben Close (replaced George Byers 73 mins) - 7
Made a big difference when he came on. Close brought the sort of positive passing that increased the tempo and added spark. Showed fantastic vision to pinpoint Ronan Curtis with a crossfield pass the winger should have done better with. Photo: Bryn Lennon