Arsenal player ratings vs Portsmouth: 9/10 inspires Gunners to FA Cup comeback. Martinelli stays in the headlines after another Arsenal set-piece clinic.

Arsenal player ratings vs Portsmouth: 9/10 propels Gunners to FA Cup revival

Martinelli remains in the spotlight following another impressive Arsenal set-piece performance.

Arsenal rallied from a goal down to dominate Portsmouth 4-1 in the FA Cup third round, with Gabriel Martinelli netting his first professional hat-trick as Kai Havertz returned from injury.

The Gunners successfully avoided an FA Cup upset, coming from behind to defeat Portsmouth and secure their place in the fourth round.

Facing a challenging atmosphere at Fratton Park, the Gunners were stunned when the hosts scored within the first three minutes. Conor Chaplin’s shot was deflected directly into the path of Colby Bishop, who quickly slotted it into the net, igniting the home crowd’s excitement.

Just four minutes later, the Gunners equalised after a frantic scramble in the box following Eberechi Eze’s corner kick. It seemed that Christian Norgaard had the final touch, but the goal was ultimately recorded 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.

Noni Madueke had a chance to extend the lead from the penalty spot after being fouled in the box, but he shockingly missed the target in a moment he would prefer to forget. The third goal eventually came from Martinelli, who tapped in from close range after a pass from Gabriel Jesus.

Martinelli capped off his hat-trick in the dying moments with another header, adding further gloss to the scoreline. Here, the Daily Star Sport offers a summary of the Arsenal players’ performances in today’s match….

Kepa Arrizabalaga – 6

Failed to clear the ball away from danger for the opening goal, allowing Bishop an easy tap-in. Otherwise, he performed adequately.

Ben White – 4

Failed to block the cross that led to Portsmouth’s goal and made several defensive errors, including being nutmegged at one point. A disappointing display.

Christian Norgaard – 7

Deployed in defense and put in a strong performance throughout. Initially believed to have scored the equalizer, but replays showed it was an own goal.

Gabriel Magalhaes – 7

Encountered some early difficulties but quickly regained his composure and provided his typical dependable performance at the back.

Myles Lewis-Skelly – 5

Seemed a step behind at times and appeared somewhat disengaged from the match. Must elevate his performance to secure a consistent starting position.

Mikel Merino – 6

Took on the captain’s role in Martin Odegaard’s absence. Maintained the midfield’s rhythm effectively, aiding Arsenal in dominating the game.

Ethan Nwaneri – 6

Made an impression with his energetic runs through the center, although he occasionally held onto the ball for too long.

Eberechi Eze – 5

Delivered the corner that resulted in Arsenal’s equalizing goal, but was mostly quiet and should have performed better against Championship-level opposition.

Noni Madueke – 6

Created chaos with his skillful runs and provided the assist for Martinelli’s first goal, but squandered his penalty with a poor attempt.

Gabriel Martinelli – 9

Displayed relentless energy in attack and was rewarded with a hat-trick of excellently executed goals. The standout performer of the match.

Gabriel Jesus – 7

Showcased some delightful touches, involving others in the game and delivered a precise cross to set up Martinelli for the team’s third goal.

Substitutes

Kai Havertz – 6

Made a highly anticipated return from injury with just 20 minutes left. Managed to gain some vital game time.

Martin Odegaard – 6

Kept the play flowing in the middle third as Arsenal showcased their dominance in the second half.

Jurrien Timber – 6

Appeared more impressive than White when he came on to replace the former England international.

Marli Salmon – 6

Came on in the closing moments to become the youngest player ever to represent Arsenal in the FA Cup.