Martinelli FA Cup win headlines Arsenal’s dominant 4-1 victory over Portsmouth to reach the fourth round at Fratton Park
Gabriel Martinelli scored a hat-trick as Arsenal produced a commanding response to defeat Portsmouth 4-1 and reach the FA Cup fourth round.
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The Premier League leaders recovered from an early shock at Fratton Park, where Championship side Portsmouth stunned the visitors inside three minutes.
Colby Bishop converted from close range to ignite home hopes of an upset.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta fielded a heavily rotated side. He made 10 changes from the team that drew 0-0 with Liverpool in midweek.
The response was swift and emphatic. Christian Nørgaard forced in an equaliser just two minutes after Portsmouth’s opener to restore control.
Martinelli then seized the moment. The Brazilian forward flicked Arsenal into the lead before half-time, showcasing composure and sharp movement.
Arsenal’s authority grew after the break. Martinelli struck again early in the second half, meeting a precise cross from Gabriel Jesus to extend the lead.
Noni Madueke missed the chance to make the scoreline more emphatic. The winger fired wide from the penalty spot.
Martinelli completed a ruthless hat-trick from another Arsenal corner, underlining the visitors’ dominance and set-piece threat.
The match carried late controversy. Martinelli faced criticism after appearing to push Liverpool defender Conor Bradley off the pitch following a serious knee injury.
Liverpool later confirmed Bradley requires surgery and will miss the rest of the season. Martinelli apologised after the match and continued unaffected.
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The Martinelli FA Cup win keeps Arsenal’s momentum strong as Arteta’s side pursue silverware on multiple fronts.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
