Arsenal Demolish Wigan 4-0 to Cruise into FA Cup Fifth Round

Arsenal dominate Wigan Athletic with a ruthless 4-0 FA Cup win, sealing fifth-round qualification with a devastating first-half display.

The FA Cup clash between Arsenal and Wigan ended in total dominance as Mikel Arteta’s side swept past Wigan Athletic with a ruthless 4-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium to book their place in the fifth round.

Arsenal settled the tie inside the opening 30 minutes, producing one of their most clinical first-half displays of the season. The tempo, movement, and precision overwhelmed the League One visitors from the opening whistle.

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The early breakthrough arrived when Noni Madueke finished calmly after a perfectly weighted through ball, setting the tone for what followed. Arsenal’s control only intensified from there.

Gabriel Martinelli doubled the lead minutes later after another incisive pass cut through Wigan’s defensive line, leaving the visitors chasing shadows. Arsenal’s movement between the lines proved impossible to track, with Wigan’s defensive structure collapsing under sustained pressure.

The third goal came through an own goal after a dangerous low delivery caused chaos in the penalty area, before Gabriel Jesus added a fourth with a composed finish to complete a devastating opening half-hour.

At 4-0 inside 30 minutes, the contest was effectively over. The remainder of the match became a controlled exercise in game management rather than competition.

Control, Rotation and Energy Management

With the result secured early, Arsenal shifted into conservation mode. Possession control replaced urgency, allowing Arteta’s side to manage energy levels with a demanding Premier League schedule ahead.

The second half lacked intensity, but it demonstrated Arsenal’s maturity and tactical discipline. The team retained structure, limited risks, and protected key players while maintaining control of the game.

Substitutions were managed carefully, reflecting squad depth and long-term planning rather than necessity.

The creative midfield display proved decisive, with Arsenal’s attacking combinations flowing naturally between the lines. Movement, spacing, and decision-making consistently opened passing lanes.

Madueke’s composure, Martinelli’s directness, and Jesus’ finishing efficiency highlighted the squad’s attacking depth, while the midfield’s control ensured Wigan never gained momentum.

The performance offered both confidence and clarity: Arsenal can rotate without losing structure, intensity, or identity.

What Wigan’s FA Cup victory means for Arsenal

Progressing comfortably into the fifth round boosts belief and momentum at a crucial point in the season. More importantly, the manner of the victory reinforces Arsenal’s growing maturity in knockout competitions.

This was not just a win — it was a statement of control, depth, and tactical authority.

As Arsenal continue to compete on multiple fronts, performances like this reduce physical strain, preserve confidence, and strengthen belief across the squad.

The FA Cup journey continues — and Arsenal look increasingly equipped for a deep run.

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