The Digest:
Arsenal survived a major scare to beat third-tier Mansfield 2-1 and reach the FA Cup quarter-finals, staying on track for a historic quadruple. Mikel Arteta made nine changes to the side that beat Brighton midweek, with 16-year-olds Max Dowman (the Gunners' youngest-ever FA Cup player) and Marli Salmon starting. Noni Madueke put Arsenal ahead shortly before half-time, becoming the first Premier League team to reach 100 goals in all competitions this season. Substitute Will Evans leveled for Mansfield after the break, but Eberechi Eze, just minutes after coming on, smashed home the winner in the 66th minute. Arsenal now advance to the last eight, keeping alive hopes of adding to their 2020 FA Cup triumph as they chase Premier League (seven points clear), Champions League, and League Cup glory.
Key Points
- Eze's decisive goal keeps Arsenal's quadruple hopes alive.
- Two 16-year-olds started, showcasing Arsenal's youth depth.
- Madueke's goal marked Arsenal's 100th of the season across competitions.
- Mansfield's spirited performance gave the Gunners a real scare.
- Arsenal now face a packed schedule: Champions League (Wednesday), League Cup final (March 22).
Sources: AFP, Match Report
