FRATTON PARK, ENGLAND — Arsenal booked their place into the FA Cup fourth round with a commanding 4–1 victory over Portsmouth in the third-round tie on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at Fratton Park. The match saw early drama, strong attacking play, and a standout performance from Gabriel Martinelli, who starred for the Gunners on the south coast.
⚽ Match Highlights & Key Moments
Championship side Portsmouth stunned the home crowd early when Colby Bishop capitalised on a mistake by Arsenal goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga to give the hosts the lead in the 3rd minute. However, Arsenal answered almost immediately: just five minutes later an own goal brought the score level following a corner, with Andre Dozzell turning the ball into his own net.
Arsenal went ahead in the 26th minute through Gabriel Martinelli’s header from another set piece, and the Brazil international continued his fine tournament form by adding more goals in the second half, completing a hat-trick and sealing the emphatic victory.
🔄 Team Performances
Despite an initial scare and a brief early lead for Pompey, Arsenal’s offensive depth and tactical rotation proved too strong for the Championship side. Manager Mikel Arteta opted for changes and substitutions that paid dividends, with contributions from a mix of regulars and squad players.
Portsmouth’s spirited start and early pressure delighted home fans, but the Gunners’ quality on the ball and clinical finishing ultimately prevailed.
📊 Impact & What’s Next
The win keeps Arsenal on course in one of English football’s most historic cup competitions, where they are record 14-time winners. Progressing to the fourth round gives Arteta’s side a chance to add silverware amid a busy season across multiple competitions. Meanwhile, Portsmouth will regroup and focus on their Championship campaign as they aim to improve their league position.
Summary:
Arsenal overcame a shock early goal from Portsmouth to win 4–1 in their FA Cup third round tie at Fratton Park. A key performance by Gabriel Martinelli, including a second-half hat-trick, powered the Gunners into the next stage of the competition after they recovered from a brief deficit.
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