Arsenal crush Portsmouth 4-1 to reach FA Cup Fourth Round

Arsenal booked their place in the fourth round of the FA Cup with a commanding victory over Portsmouth at Fratton Park after turning an awkward early test into a one-sided contest.

The Gunners were briefly rocked when Colby Bishop struck inside three minutes to give the Championship side a surprise lead and ignite hopes of a cup shock.

That early setback ensured a tense opening with Portsmouth flying into challenges and the atmosphere turning fractious as Arsenal adjusted to the conditions.

The visitors responded quickly and decisively when Christian Norgaard forced the ball home from close range following a familiar Arsenal corner to restore parity.

That equaliser drained belief from the home side and allowed Arsenal to establish control through possession and territory.

Gabriel Martinelli then put the Gunners ahead midway through the first half by flicking Noni Madueke’s corner beyond the goalkeeper to underline Arsenal’s growing authority.

Arsenal had the chance to pull further clear before the break when Madueke won a penalty but the winger dragged his effort wide to keep Portsmouth in the contest.

Any lingering doubt was removed shortly after the restart when Martinelli struck again to extend Arsenal’s lead.

A quick free-kick from Myles Lewis-Skelly caught Portsmouth napping and Gabriel Jesus squared for Martinelli to tap in from close range.

The Brazilian completed his hat-trick in emphatic fashion moments later by once again meeting a corner at the near post and guiding the ball into the net.

What began as a hostile and unpredictable cup tie was effectively settled by Arsenal’s set-piece efficiency and Martinelli’s sharp movement.

Mikel Arteta’s side grew increasingly comfortable as the second half wore on and limited Portsmouth to sporadic efforts.

The manager made full use of his squad as the game opened up with several fringe players gaining valuable minutes.

There was a notable moment of history late on when 16-year-old Marli Salmon was introduced to become Arsenal’s youngest-ever FA Cup player.

Kai Havertz also returned to action following injury which added another positive note to a convincing evening.

Martinelli’s hat-trick was particularly timely given recent scrutiny on the winger and his reduced role in the league.

Arsenal’s dominance from corners once again proved decisive and continues to be a defining feature of their season.

The early goal and initial intensity were encouraging for Portsmouth but the gulf in quality soon became clear.

Their focus will now return to league matters after an outing that ultimately exposed defensive frailties.

Arsenal move on in the competition with momentum restored and a clear sense of purpose.

Progress was achieved without complication in the end but it was earned through patience, composure and ruthless execution.

The Gunners remain firmly on course in another competition as their pursuit of silverware continues.

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