Arsenal fought back from a goal down to thrash Portsmouth 4-1 in the FA Cup third round, with Gabriel Martinelli scoring his first professional hat-trick as Kai Havertz made his return from injury
16:12, 11 Jan 2026Updated 16:15, 11 Jan 2026
PORTSMOUTH, ENGLAND - JANUARY 11: Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal celebrates after scoring a goal to make it 1-2 during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Portsmouth and Arsenal on January 11, 2026 in Portsmouth, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images)
View 2 Images
Arsenal beat Portsmouth in the FA Cup third round(Image: Catherine Ivill - AMA, Getty Images)
Arsenal managed to avoid an FA Cup upset, coming from behind to beat Portsmouth and secure their spot in the fourth round.
The Gunners faced a hostile crowd at Fratton Park and were taken aback when the hosts scored within the first three minutes. Conor Chaplin's shot was parried straight into the path of Colby Bishop, who promptly fired it into the net, sending the home supporters into a frenzy.
The Gunners equalised just four minutes later, following a chaotic scramble in the box after Eberechi Eze's corner kick. It appeared that Christian Norgaard got the final touch, but the goal was ultimately credited as an own goal by Portsmouth midfielder Andre Dozzell. Arsenal completed their comeback before the half-hour mark with another goal from a corner, this time headed in by Gabriel Martinelli.
Gabriel Martinelli
View 2 Images
Arsenal came from behind to beat Portsmouth(Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Noni Madueke had an opportunity to make it three from the penalty spot after being fouled in the box, but he shockingly pulled his shot wide in a moment he'd rather forget. The third goal eventually came courtesy of Martinelli, who nudged in from close range after a pass from Gabriel Jesus.
Martinelli completed his hat-trick in the final moments with another header, adding some extra shine to the scoreline. Here, the Daily Star Sport provides a rundown of the Arsenal players' performances in today's match....
Kepa Arrizabalaga - 6
Failed to deflect the ball away from danger for the opening goal, providing Bishop with an easy tap-in. Performed adequately otherwise.
Ben White - 4
Failed to prevent the cross that led to Portsmouth's goal and had a few defensive mistakes, including being nutmegged at one point. A disappointing performance.
Christian Norgaard - 7
Deployed in defence and put in a solid shift throughout. Initially thought to have scored the equaliser, but replays revealed it was an own goal.
Gabriel Magalhaes - 7
Faced some early challenges but quickly found his footing and delivered his usual reliable performance at the back.
Myles Lewis-Skelly - 5
Appeared a step behind at times and didn't seem particularly engaged with the match. Needs to up his game to secure a regular starting spot.
Mikel Merino - 6
Took on the captain's armband in Martin Odegaard's absence. Kept the midfield engine running smoothly, helping Arsenal dominate the game.
Ethan Nwaneri - 6
Impressed with his dynamic runs through the centre, although occasionally held onto the ball for too long.
Eberechi Eze - 5
Delivered the corner that led to Arsenal's equalising goal, but was largely quiet and should have performed better against Championship opposition.
Noni Madueke - 6
Caused havoc with his tricky runs and provided the assist for Martinelli's first goal, but fluffed his penalty with a poor attempt.
Gabriel Martinelli - 9
Put in a tireless performance in attack and was rewarded with a hat-trick of superbly executed goals. The standout player of the match.
Gabriel Jesus - 7
He showcased some lovely touches, bringing others into the game and delivered a spot-on cross to set up Martinelli for the team's third goal.
Substitutes
Kai Havertz - 6
Made a much-anticipated return from injury with just 20 minutes remaining. Managed to get some crucial game time under his belt.
Martin Odegaard - 6
Kept the ball rolling in the middle third as Arsenal demonstrated their dominance in the second half.
Jurrien Timber - 6
Looked more impressive than White when he came on to replace the ex-England international.
Marli Salmon - 6
Came on in the final moments to become the youngest player ever to represent Arsenal in the FA Cup.
Article continues below
Martin Zubimendi - n/a
A late substitute.