Segecic's Hat-Trick Propels Portsmouth to Victory Over Stoke
Adrian Segecic's hat-trick led Portsmouth to a 3-1 victory over Stoke City, marking their first win at the bet365 Stadium in history.
Match Summary: Stoke City vs Portsmouth
On April 25, 2026, Portsmouth delivered an impressive performance in the Sky Bet Championship, defeating Stoke City 3-1 at the bet365 Stadium. This victory marked a historic achievement for Pompey as it was their first win at this venue.
The match was highlighted by a standout performance from Adrian Segecic, who scored a hat-trick, his first in the EFL. Segecic opened the scoring in the 32nd minute, giving Portsmouth an early lead. Stoke managed to equalize shortly after halftime through Lamine Cisse, who struck just two minutes into the second half.
However, Segecic quickly restored Portsmouth's lead in the 66th minute, before sealing his hat-trick with a stunning left-footed effort from 20 yards out in the 82nd minute. This decisive goal not only confirmed the win but also showcased Segecic's remarkable talent as he continues to be a crucial player for Portsmouth this season.
Significance of the Victory
This win is particularly significant as it ended a long wait for Portsmouth, whose last away victory against Stoke was at the club's former home, Victoria Ground, back in February 1995. The result also underscores Stoke City's ongoing struggles, marking their eighth consecutive season finishing in the bottom half of the Championship after their relegation from the Premier League in 2018.
Portsmouth, now free from relegation worries, had previously suffered a heavy 5-1 defeat against Coventry, which had allowed Frank Lampard's side to secure the second-tier title. Yet, they bounced back strongly against Stoke, demonstrating resilience and determination under manager John Mousinho, who made five changes to the lineup for this final away game of the season.
The match drew an attendance of 24,894 fans at the bet365 Stadium, who witnessed a thrilling encounter that highlighted the competitive nature of the Championship.
Looking Ahead
As the season draws to a close, Portsmouth will be eager to build on this momentum, while Stoke City will need to reassess their strategies to avoid further disappointments in the coming seasons. With Segecic's form peaking at the right time, Pompey fans will be hopeful for a strong finish to their campaign.
