Martinelli Hat-Trick Sends Arsenal Into FA Cup Fourth Round

Arsenal recover from early scare at Fratton Park

Gabriel Martinelli grabbed the headlines for the right reasons as Arsenal recovered from an early shock to thrash Portsmouth 4-1 in the FA Cup third round.

Mikel Arteta’s side conceded inside three minutes at a rain-soaked Fratton Park but responded emphatically, with Martinelli scoring a hat-trick to send the Premier League leaders comfortably through.

Portsmouth strike early but Arsenal respond

The hosts stunned Arsenal almost immediately. Harvey Blair’s work down the left led to Conor Chaplin’s effort being parried by Kepa Arrizabalaga, allowing Colby Bishop to slam home the rebound for his first goal since August.

Portsmouth’s lead lasted only five minutes. A corner caused chaos in the box and Andre Dozzell, under pressure, turned the ball into his own net to level the tie.

Set-pieces swing the game Arsenal’s way

Arsenal took control midway through the first half. Martinelli rose highest to head home from Noni Madueke’s corner, although replays suggested the delivery may have gone out beforehand.

The Gunners could have been further ahead before the break. Martinelli struck the post with the goal gaping, while Madueke missed from the penalty spot after being fouled by Zak Swanson.

Despite those misses, Arsenal went into halftime firmly on top.

Martinelli completes his treble after the break

Any lingering Portsmouth optimism disappeared early in the second half. Martinelli doubled his tally in the 51st minute, sliding in at the back post to convert Gabriel Jesus’ low cross.

Three minutes later, Arsenal struck again from another corner. Martinelli rose to meet Madueke’s delivery and headed through Josef Bursik’s hands to complete his hat-trick and claim the match ball.

It was a ruthless spell that killed the contest.

Arsenal march on despite missed chances

Martinelli could have scored four on the night after missing an open goal earlier in the game, but his hat-trick was more than enough as Arsenal reached the fourth round for the first time in three seasons.

Arteta made 10 changes to his starting lineup, while Kai Havertz returned from injury late on as Arsenal began a demanding run of four successive away games across four competitions.