Gabriel Martinelli delivered a sensational performance to inspire Arsenal to a 4–1 comeback victory over Portsmouth in the third round of the FA Cup at Fratton Park.
The Brazilian forward was the standout player of the match, scoring a hat-trick and providing an assist in a dominant display that sent the Gunners comfortably through to the next round of the competition.
Portsmouth Start Strong but Arsenal Respond Quickly
Portsmouth surprised Arsenal with an aggressive start and opened the scoring just two minutes into the match. After a mistake in Arsenal’s build-up play, Colby Bishop finished on the rebound following a shot from Chaplin, igniting the home crowd.
Arsenal reacted immediately. In the 7th minute, a corner taken by Martinelli caused chaos in the box, and midfielder Andre Dozzell inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, leveling the score.
Martinelli Takes Control Before Half-Time
With the equalizer, Arsenal grew into the game and took the lead in the 24th minute—once again from a corner. Martinelli rose above the Portsmouth defense and headed home to make it 2–1.
The Brazilian nearly added another before the break, hitting the post in the 40th minute. Shortly after, Noni Madueke won a penalty but failed to convert, leaving Arsenal with a narrow advantage at halftime.
Second-Half Dominance and Brazilian Brilliance
Arsenal wasted no time asserting control after the restart. Just five minutes into the second half, Myles Lewis-Skelly took a quick free kick to Gabriel Jesus, who delivered a low cross into the box. Martinelli arrived unmarked to score his second goal of the night, effectively sealing the match.
The hat-trick was completed moments later. From another corner—this time taken by Madueke—Martinelli once again outjumped the defense and powered a header into the net to make it 4–1.
A Night for the “Three Gabriels”
It was a memorable night for Arsenal’s Brazilian trio. In addition to Martinelli’s heroics, Gabriel Jesus showed encouraging signs as he continues his comeback from a long-term injury, while Gabriel Magalhães was involved in a heated but harmless exchange with Portsmouth fans near the touchline.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
With the FA Cup victory secured, Arsenal now turn their attention back to the Premier League, where they currently sit top of the table, six points clear of Manchester City and Aston Villa.
The Gunners return to action on Saturday (17), facing Nottingham Forest away at 2:30 pm (Brasília time), aiming to maintain their commanding lead in the title race.
