Gabriel Martinelli scored three goals as Arsenal defeated Portsmouth 4-1 on Sunday to secure a place in the fourth round of the Football Association (FA) Cup.
Gatekeepers News reports that the match started with a surprise as Portsmouth took the lead in the third minute through Colby Bishop, raising hopes of an upset against the Premier League leaders at Fratton Park.
Arsenal responded quickly and took control of the game despite manager Mikel Arteta making 10 changes to the team that drew with Liverpool in midweek. Christian Norgaard equalised from close range before Martinelli scored his first goal to put Arsenal ahead.
The Brazilian winger, who had faced criticism earlier in the week over an incident involving Liverpool defender Conor Bradley, showed no signs of distraction as he led Arsenal’s attack with confidence. Bradley has since been ruled out for the rest of the season after Liverpool confirmed he will undergo surgery.
Arsenal continued to dominate through set pieces and attacking pressure. Noni Madueke missed a penalty that could have extended the lead, but Martinelli struck again early in the second half from a Gabriel Jesus cross to make it 3-1.
He completed his hat-trick later in the game with another close-range finish from a corner, sealing a comfortable win for the visitors.
The result keeps Arsenal’s strong domestic form going as they continue their push for silverware this season, while Portsmouth exits the competition despite a bright start.
