Martinelli Hat-Trick Fires Arsenal Past Portsmouth into FA Cup Fourth Round

Martinelli Hat-Trick Fires Arsenal Past Portsmouth into FA Cup Fourth Round

Gabriel Martinelli scored a superb hat-trick as Arsenal recovered from an early setback to defeat Portsmouth at Fratton Park, sealing progression to the FA Cup fourth round.

Following a weekend of surprise FA Cup upsets involving Wrexham and Macclesfield, the Gunners, who made 10 changes to their starting line-up, appeared vulnerable when Colby Bishop fired the Championship side into the lead after just three minutes.

However, Arsenal responded swiftly, drawing level five minutes later when Christian Nørgaard forced the ball into the net via Andre Dozzell after a trademark Arsenal corner.

The equaliser settled Mikel Arteta’s side, and they went ahead midway through the first half when Martinelli flicked Noni Madueke’s corner beyond the Portsmouth goalkeeper in the 25th minute.

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Madueke had an opportunity to extend the lead from the penalty spot after being fouled by Zak Swanson, but the England international dragged his effort wide.

Martinelli continued to torment the hosts, striking the post and missing another clear chance before adding his second shortly after the break. The Brazilian tapped in from close range after a low cross by Gabriel Jesus, following quick thinking from Myles Lewis-Skelly.

The forward completed his FA Cup hat-trick from yet another Arsenal corner, flicking the ball on at the near post to seal a comfortable win for the visitors.

The match also produced a moment of history as Marli Salmon, aged 16 years and 135 days, became the youngest player to represent Arsenal in the FA Cup, making his debut late in the game.

Martinelli Hat-Trick Fires Arsenal Past Portsmouth into FA Cup Fourth Round