Arsenal booked their tickets to the final of the FA Cup by securing a famous 2-0 win over Manchester City at Wembley this evening. The Gunners had a competent start to the game and scored a vital opener through Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the first half. They were more than willing to contain the Man City attack in the second half and were rewarded for their efforts with another goal in the 71st minute, once again through Aubameyang.
Arsenal Player Ratings Vs Manchester City
Emiliano Martinez 9/10
Made an important save to deny Riyad Mahrez in the second half. Looked solid as ever with his punches and claims, preserving a well-deserved clean sheet.
Shkodran Mustafi 9.5/10
Shkodran Mustafi enjoyed one of his best performances for Arsenal, repelling the Manchester City attack despite their best efforts. The German was solid with his tackling, interceptions as well as passing. Unfortunately, he was taken off after picking up a late injury.
David Luiz 10/10
David Luiz was arguably the most influential figure in the Arsenal defence this evening. The Brazilian marshalled the backline with his determination and led by examples, making multiple headed clearances. A top display.
Kieran Tierney 9.5/10
Kieran Tierney was brilliant in the back-three, building superb communication with Luiz and Mustafi. His positioning was top class as well while the Scot provided an excellent through pass to leave Aubameyang through on goal for the second.
Hector Bellerin 8/10
Hector Bellerin didn’t have much to do in the final third. But, the Spaniard stuck to his task defensively and provided the solidity that was necessary to fend off the pressure from Man City.
Granit Xhaka 9/10
Yet another outstanding display from Granit Xhaka, whose tremendous work-rate and understanding of the game prevented the Manchester City midfielders from dominating the game in the first half. The Swiss international also showed excellent discipline to help preserve a clean sheet.
Dani Ceballos 8.5/10
Dani Ceballos was excellent once again this evening. His industry, versatility and technical prowess added a new dimension to Arsenal’s game. In the second half, the Spaniard also showed amazing courage and kept in balance with his team’s defensive tactics.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles 8.5/10
Ainsley Maitland-Niles enjoyed a great game on the left flank. Although his crosses were far from perfect, the Englishman defended well despite relentless pressure.
Nicolas Pepe 8/10
Nicolas Pepe provided the offensive spark in the first-half that was necessary as Arsenal probed Manchester City. He was always willing to get himself involved in attacking moments, notably providing an excellent cross that led to the first goal. Was also involved in the second goal before being taken off.
Alexandre Lacazette 7/10
Yet another positive performance from Alexandre Lacazette, who dropped deep when it was necessary. The Frenchman’s excellent work-ethic personified Arsenal’s efficient attacking display in the first half. He was invisible in the second half, though, before making way for Lucas Torreira.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang 9/10
Aubameyang missed a glorious opportunity to score early on in the game and scuffed another opportunity to tee the ball up for Pepe. However, the Gabonese international made up for his mistakes with two well-taken goals, which was indicative of his predatory brilliant and an excellent mentality.
SUBSTITUTES
Joe Willock 5/10
Came on for Pepe to provide some more energy in the Arsenal attack. Didn’t do much though as Manchester City were dominating possession.
Lucas Torreira 6/10
Offered additional resistance in midfield after coming on for Lacazette during the final phase of the game.
Rob Holding N/A
Replaced the injured Mustafi and managed to see off Arsenal’s two goal lead.
Sead Kolasinac N/A
A late replacement for the tiring Ceballos.