FA Cup: Martinelli bags hat-trick as Arsenal thrash Portsmouth

Gabriel Martinelli scored a hat-trick as Arsenal came from behind to beat Portsmouth comfortably at Fratton Park and progress to the FA Cup fourth round.

After FA Cup shocks involving Wrexham and Macclesfield earlier this weekend, it looked as if the Gunners, who made 10 changes to their starting line-up, could be on the end of another when Colby Bishop put the Championship hosts ahead after three minutes.

Arsenal respond after early scare

Arsenal were only behind for five minutes before Christian Norgaard forced the ball in via Portsmouth’s Andre Dozzell after a trademark Gunners corner to level.

That goal settled the visitors down and they took the lead from another set-piece when Martinelli flicked Noni Madueke’s corner into the net after 25 minutes.

Madueke had a chance to extend the lead from the penalty spot after being brought down by Zak Swanson, but the England international dragged his effort wide.

Martinelli takes centre stage

Martinelli, who also hit the post and missed a good chance in the first half, added a third after Gabriel Jesus delivered a low cross following quick thinking by Myles Lewis-Skelly, with the Brazilian finishing from close range.

The winger completed his hat-trick from another Arsenal corner, flicking the ball on at the near post and into the net.

Youth milestone and squad depth on display

There was a moment of history as 16-year-old defender Marli Salmon became the youngest player to feature for Arsenal in the FA Cup at 16 years and 135 days.

Despite a mixed season that has seen him lose his regular Premier League starting place, Martinelli’s first hat-trick for the club could prove a timely confidence boost.

Arsenal’s squad depth was again evident, allowing Mikel Arteta to rotate heavily while still fielding a competitive side.

The victory also saw Kai Havertz return from injury, as Arsenal continue a demanding run of fixtures across multiple competitions with momentum firmly on their side.