Arsenal Dominates Wigan in 4

Arsenal 4-0 Wigan: FA Cup Journey Begins with Dominant Display

Arsenal made a commanding return to the FA Cup fifth round with a performance characterized by early efficiency and consistent control. Facing League One side Wigan, Mikel Arteta’s team secured a 4-0 win, showcasing a tempo-driven game that saw them net four goals within the first 30 minutes, swiftly establishing their dominance.

In their quest for silverware, Arsenal executed their game plan with professionalism, combining tactical rotation with a seamless rhythm, all while upholding the standards expected from Premier League leaders.

Rapid Start Lays Foundation for Success

From the very beginning, Arsenal demonstrated their technical prowess. Their ball possession was intent-driven rather than merely for show, and their forward movements were sharp and decisive.

The first goal arrived in the 11th minute, initiated by Eberechi Eze’s keen vision near the halfway line. His incisive pass found Noni Madueke, who maintained his composure and coolly slotted the ball past Wigan’s Sam Tickle.

Just seven minutes later, the pattern repeated itself as Eze set up Gabriel Martinelli, whose shot into the corner doubled the lead.

Wigan’s defense struggled to adapt to the relentless pressure, leading to Arsenal’s third when Jack Hunt accidentally directed the ball into his own net after a well-executed combination between Bukayo Saka and Madueke.

The fourth goal, completed before the half hour mark, capped off a relentless offensive display. Christian Norgaard’s clever pass found Gabriel Jesus, who skillfully chipped the advancing goalkeeper, establishing a 4-0 advantage that effectively extinguished any chance of a Wigan comeback.

With this performance, Arsenal became the first Premier League team to score four goals within the first half hour of an FA Cup match, a testament to their attacking fluidity and psychological dominance.

Showcasing Tactical Versatility

Arteta’s lineup reflected both necessity and experimentation. Bukayo Saka was a late addition after Riccardo Calafiori’s warm-up injury, necessitating a slight shift in positions.

Playing in central midfield, Saka exhibited excellent spatial awareness and technical proficiency, facilitating smooth transitions as Arsenal controlled the game’s pace. His presence was crucial in balancing creativity and progression, especially as he regains form following a hip issue.

Alongside him, Norgaard’s composed play helped maintain structural discipline, allowing the attacking players to thrive further upfield.

Martinelli’s Cup Form Continues

Although Martinelli’s Premier League contributions have varied this season, he continues to shine in cup competitions.

His goal against Wigan marked a significant milestone, bringing his tally to 10 goals in European and domestic cup matches this season, highlighting his knack for performing in knockout rounds.

This achievement holds historical significance, as Martinelli becomes the first Arsenal player since Ian Wright in the 1994-95 season to score over 10 goals in cup and European competitions in a single campaign.

Depth and Youth Development

With the match well secured, Arteta utilized the second half to involve more players. The integration of youth was a key theme, with 16-year-old defender Marli Salmon making his home debut after taking the place of William Saliba.

19-year-old goalkeeper Tommy Setford also had the opportunity to step onto the pitch, giving fans a glimpse of the club’s promising future.

Eberechi Eze’s performance was especially significant, as he bounced back from a half-time substitution in a previous match to deliver two assists, reinforcing his creative role within the squad.

Wigan did threaten a consolation goal, with Joe Taylor forcing a remarkable save from Kepa Arrizabalaga and substitute Viktor Gyokeres hitting the post, but ultimately, Arsenal never lost control of the match.

Building Cup Momentum

Progressing to the FA Cup fifth round for the first time since 2020 reconnects Arsenal with a tournament that has played an essential role in shaping their modern identity.

Their last triumph, six years ago, marked Arteta’s initial trophy as manager. As they remain active in four competitions, Arsenal continue to chase tangible success after a long wait for silverware.

Performances marked by clarity, early decisive scoring, seamless squad rotation, and risk-free youth exposure strengthen the belief that cup progression can coexist with league ambitions.