Arsenal Demolish Wigan in FA Cup Rout to Keep Quadruple Hopes Alive
Arsenal delivered a commanding performance at the Emirates Stadium, thrashing Wigan Athletic 4-0 to secure their place in the FA Cup fifth round for the first time in six seasons. The Gunners' relentless attack overwhelmed their League One opponents, scoring four goals in a blistering 16-minute first-half spell that effectively ended the contest early.
First-Half Blitz Seals Victory
From the opening whistle, Arsenal demonstrated their superiority, with Noni Madueke opening the scoring after latching onto a precise through ball from Eberechi Eze. The onslaught continued as Gabriel Martinelli doubled the lead minutes later, finishing coolly into the corner after another incisive pass from Eze.
A Jack Hunt own goal compounded Wigan's misery following slick interplay between Madueke and Bukayo Saka. Gabriel Jesus completed the scoring in the 27th minute, expertly chipping goalkeeper Sam Tickle after collecting Christian Norgaard's lofted pass over Wigan's disorganized defence.
Key Talking Points from Emirates Stadium
Eze's Confidence-Boosting Display
Eberechi Eze, who has struggled for consistency recently, flourished against Wigan's limited opposition. The playmaker showcased his vision and passing range, providing two assists within the first 18 minutes. His ability to find space and deliver dangerous balls behind Wigan's defensive line highlighted his technical quality in a pressure-free environment.
Saka's Unusual Midfield Role
Bukayo Saka was deployed in an unfamiliar central midfield position due to Riccardo Calafiori's late withdrawal. With Madueke occupying Saka's usual right-wing spot, the England international adapted well alongside Eze and Norgaard. His versatility and willingness to drop deep or push forward offered Arsenal additional creative options against Wigan's defensive setup.
Madueke Finding Form
Noni Madueke continued his promising development with another goal and influential performance. The £48.5 million summer signing from Chelsea displayed his pace and finishing ability with Arsenal's opener, building on his recent headed goal against Brentford. His growing consistency provides Mikel Arteta with valuable depth on the right flank.
Glimpse of Future Talent
With the match secured, Arteta introduced 16-year-old defender Marli Salmon for his third senior appearance. The versatile youngster, who can play at centre-back or full-back, represents Arsenal's promising academy pipeline. Though he faced limited action in the subdued second half, his inclusion signals Arteta's willingness to integrate youth.
Quadruple Ambitions Remain Intact
Arsenal's comprehensive victory maintains their involvement in all four competitions this season. While the Premier League title remains the primary objective, the Gunners also have a Carabao Cup final against Manchester City approaching, a perfect Champions League group stage record, and now an FA Cup fifth-round berth. Their squad depth and favourable draw suggest they can compete on multiple fronts without compromising their domestic priorities.
The second half offered little drama as Arteta made strategic substitutions to preserve player fitness. Wigan's only notable chance came from Joe Taylor, comfortably saved by Kepa Arrizabalaga, but by then the outcome was never in doubt. Arsenal's dominant display reinforces their status as serious contenders across multiple competitions this season.
