Arsenal booked their place in the next round of the FA Cup, but not without a few nervous moments, as Portsmouth gave the Premier League side an early scare before the Gunners’ quality eventually told. Mikel Arteta rotated his squad heavily, and while the result ultimately went Arsenal’s way, the performance was far from flawless, particularly in the opening stages.
Aaron Ramsdale – 7/10
Restored to the starting XI, Ramsdale was called into action early as Portsmouth pressed with intent. He made a sharp save in the opening ten minutes that prevented Arsenal from falling behind and settled his side. Confident with the ball at his feet and vocal throughout, he did what was required on a tricky afternoon.
Ben White – 6.5/10
White looked slightly uncomfortable early on as Portsmouth targeted Arsenal’s right side, but he grew into the game. Defensively solid after the break and tidy in possession, though he rarely threatened going forward as he sometimes does.
William Saliba – 7/10
Calm amid the early chaos, Saliba provided much-needed composure. He read danger well, won his duels, and helped Arsenal regain control once the initial storm passed. A steady, professional display.
Jakub Kiwior – 6.5/10
Kiwior had a shaky start, struggling with Portsmouth’s physicality, but recovered well. He improved as the game progressed, making important interceptions and keeping things simple in possession.
Oleksandr Zinchenko – 6/10
Zinchenko’s inverted role helped Arsenal dominate the ball later on, but defensively he looked vulnerable early. Portsmouth found joy down his flank before Arsenal tightened up. Mixed overall.
Jorginho – 7/10
The experienced midfielder played a crucial role in calming Arsenal down after a frantic opening. His passing rhythm allowed the Gunners to control possession and slow the game, even if he lacked mobility at times.
Declan Rice – 8/10
Arsenal’s standout performer. Rice’s presence was key to Arsenal surviving the early scare. He broke up play, drove forward with authority, and set the tone with his intensity. A leader’s performance.
Martin Ødegaard – 7.5/10
The captain grew into the match, dictating play once Arsenal found their footing. His movement between the lines caused Portsmouth problems, and his creativity was central to Arsenal’s attacking threat.
Bukayo Saka – 7/10
Saka wasn’t at his explosive best but remained dangerous. He worked hard defensively and played a role in stretching Portsmouth’s back line. A quieter but still effective outing.
Gabriel Jesus – 7.5/10
Jesus led the line with energy and intelligence. His movement unsettled Portsmouth’s defenders, and he was rewarded with a goal that shifted the momentum firmly in Arsenal’s favour.
Leandro Trossard – 7/10
Trossard was lively and direct, linking play well and creating space for others. While he didn’t dominate, his sharp touches and positional awareness added control in the final third.
Substitutes – 6.5/10
Arteta’s changes helped see the game out, adding fresh legs and control. No standout moments, but their impact ensured Arsenal avoided any late drama.
Overall
Arsenal survived an early FA Cup scare, showing resilience rather than brilliance. While questions remain about their slow starts, the Gunners’ depth and quality ultimately proved too much, keeping their cup ambitions alive.
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