Arsenal blasted through to the fourth round of the Carabao after securing a thumping 5-0 win over Nottingham Forest earlier tonight. The Gunners dominated the game through the ninety minutes but failed to make use of their chances during the early stages of the game. Gabriel Martinelli’s goal was the only difference between the two sides during the interval. But, an improved second-half display saw the home side create a plethora of chances, with youngsters, in particular, impressing the onlookers with their excellent combination play and individuals skills. Rob Holding scored the second while Reiss Nelson and Joe Willock also got onto the scoresheet before Martinelli doubled his tally during added-time. Here is how Unai Emery’s troops performed in their comprehensive victory over the second division outfit. Find out how the Arsenal players rated in win over Nottingham Forest.
Arsenal Players Rated In Win Over Nottingham Forest
Emiliano Martinez 6
Had nothing to do as Nottingham produced their first shot on target in the 73rd minute and that too, a tame effort from Shola Ameobi.
Calum Chambers 10
Arguably the best player in the first-half, Chambers assisted no less than three goals tonight. But most importantly, he was rock solid in defence and made a host of interceptions early on that restricted the Nottingham forward from building any rhythm.
Shkodran Mustafi 8
Arsenal had to do very little defensively. But when they did, Mustafi was always there, mopping up. The German neutralised Nottingham’s best chance of the game when he made the tackle on Adomah, who had four passing options during a 4v4 counter-attack.
Rob Holding 8
Holding provided stability in defence, though he wasn’t actually involved in anything meaningful aside from the second goal. It could serve as a huge confidence booster for the 24-year-old, who is returning from a long injury layoff.
Kieran Tierney 10
An incredible debut for Kieran Tierney, who ruled the show with his fantastic performance on the flanks. The ex-Celtic man looked extremely comfortable carrying the ball into the final third while his combination play with Bukayo Saka was phenomenal.
The Scot also got to the byline and produced some dangerous crosses into the box that troubled the Nottingham defence. Overall, it was a dream debut from the 22-year-old, and it will be interesting to see how he performs against tougher opposition.
Lucas Torreira 8.5
Not as influential as most of his teammates and that is because the Uruguayan played a relatively deeper role. He was in charge of cutting of Nottingham’s passing lanes and providing solidity in midfield, which he did very well. Also got forward on occasions.
Joe Willock 9
Willock’s tendency to move forward and get into the box and act as a target man has served him well tonight. The youngster initially missed a header from point-blank range. But shortly afterwards, he redeemed himself by tapping in from a Hector Bellerin cross. Willock looked solid in possession as well.
Emile Smith Rowe 6
It was an unfortunate night for the youngster, whose game was cut short due to an injury, which forced him to leave the pitch. He made way for Saka just on the brink of half-time.
Mesut Ozil 7.5
Looked influential for the most part but lacked the vigour and energy which served as the main driving force for Arsenal in this victory. He was really effective from set-pieces, though, before eventually making way for Dani Ceballos.
Reiss Nelson 9
This performance against Nottingham would serve as a boost for Nelson, who has struggled to make a mark at the Emirates this season. The ex-TSG attacker was extremely active throughout the game and provided the assist for Holding’s goal in the second half. He also produced a ton of dangerous crosses, including the one which Willock missed.
Gabriel Martinelli 10
Martinelli introduced himself to the Arsenal fans in style, by scoring a brace in what was his starting debut for the Gunners.
The Brazilian caused problems for the Nottingham defence with his mazy and direct runs while his combination play was also top-notch. His exquisite goal in the added time capped off a comprehensive display, though the shot was slightly deflected.
SUBSTITUTES
Bukayo Saka 9
After an unfortunate substitution against Aston Villa, Saka showed exactly what he is capable of after replacing Smith Rowe. The youngster was deeply involved in the left-flank, taking on defenders and creating chances at will.
His composure on the ball is what makes him such a unique attacking figure in the final third. And this performance will surely give him a bit more recognition in the Arsenal first-team.
Dani Ceballos 8
Provided the energy and tenacity in attack after replacing Ozil in the 71st minute. The Spaniard was also showed off his skills by beating a couple of Nottingham defenders in one go.
Hector Bellerin 7.5
Received a massive cheer after making his highly anticipated return from injury in the 72nd minute, replacing Tierney. And the Arsenal fan favourite made a quick impact, registering an assist for the Willock goal from what was only his third touch of the game.
