Arsenal destroy Wigan Athletic to storm into FA Cup fifth round

Arsenal produced a blistering first-half performance to thrash Wigan Athletic 4-0 and book their place in the FA Cup fifth round on Sunday.

The fourth-round clash at the Emirates Stadium was effectively over before the half-hour mark as the Gunners scored four goals in a devastating attacking spell.

Noni Madueke opened the floodgates in the 10th minute after a well-worked midfield move, calmly slotting past goalkeeper Sam Tickle after being played through.

Arsenal doubled their lead in the 17th minute when Gabriel Martinelli fired home after a slick attacking sequence to record his fourth goal of the competition this season.

Wigan’s problems worsened five minutes later when defender Jack Hunt turned the ball into his own net under pressure following dangerous attacking play down the left flank.

Gabriel Jesus then completed the first-half demolition in the 26th minute, latching onto a precise long ball before delicately lifting the ball over the advancing goalkeeper.

The hosts’ dominance was driven by strong midfield control, with Eberechi Eze and Bukayo Saka dictating tempo and creating openings throughout the early stages.

Arsenal nearly extended the lead further shortly after, with Martinelli going close again, but Tickle reacted quickly to prevent more damage.

Despite entering the second half with a commanding lead, Arsenal maintained control of possession while limiting Wigan’s attacking opportunities.

Kepa Arrizabalaga was forced into action to maintain the clean sheet, producing important saves when Wigan striker Joe Taylor and Raphael Rodrigues threatened.

Arsenal manager’s second-half changes included introducing Viktor Gyokeres, who nearly marked his appearance with a goal but saw his effort bounce off the woodwork.

Teenage defender Marli Salmon also made his home debut late in the game, while young goalkeeper Tommy Setford was introduced towards the closing stages to loud cheers from home supporters.

The victory means Arsenal progress to the FA Cup fifth round for the first time since 2020 and continue an impressive defensive record, registering another clean sheet in what has been a strong 2025/26 campaign.