Portsmouth vs Arsenal: Martinelli’s hat-trick sends Gunners cruising to FA Cup next round after Pompey thrashing

The Gunners continue their unbeaten run in all competitions, having last lost against Aston Villa in November.

They come into the cup tie needing to get back to winning ways after playing a 0-0 draw against Liverpool during the week.

The Premier League leaders were able to get the job done, with a 4-1 win over Portsmouth, and moved to the next round.

Colby Bishop started for Portsmouth after missing the last game, but the frontman has not scored for Pompey since August.

Mikel Arteta made 10 changes to the team that played Liverpool in midweek, with centre back Gabriel the only one to keep his place. 

Kai Havertz is back in the squad as he looks to return to fitness. He has not played since the opening day of the Premier League season.

The host made a quick start, shocking the Premier League leaders, with Colby Bishop scoring the first goal in the fourth minute. 

Arsenal responded shortly after with the equaliser from a corner kick that was scruffed in by Christian Norgaard. The Gunners took the lead from another corner kick, which was headed in by Gabriel Martinelli.

Noni Madueke had the chance to put Arsenal two goals up but failed to convert from the penalty spot after winning the spot kick earlier.

Arteta’s side extended their lead entering the second half after a ball into the box by Gabriel Jesus was met by Martinelli. The winger then scored the fourth goal from another corner kick to mark a hat-trick in the game.

The Gunners ended the game with a comfortable 4-1 victory, with Martinelli getting his first hat-trick in his Arsenal career.