And yet again set-piece problems proved costly, with three goals coming from corners and another involving a quick free-kick in the build up as Arsenal capitalised in style.
Colby Bishop opened the scoring on three minutes after Conor Chaplin’s shot had been saved, but Arsenal soon roared back with an Andre Dozzell own goal following a corner.
Gabriel Martinelli added another, then missed from a few yards and then Noni Madueke missed a penalty in a lively first half which finished 2-1.
However, Arsenal controlled the game after the break, with Martinelli completing his hat-trick, while Harvey Blair and Franco Umeh both went off with fresh injuries.
And here are our Pompey player ratings...
1. John Swift (8) of Portsmouth applauds the fans at full time during the FA Cup match between Portsmouth and Arsenal at Fratton Park, Portsmouth, UK on 11 January 2026.
John Swift (8) of Portsmouth applauds the fans at full time during the FA Cup match between Portsmouth and Arsenal at Fratton Park, Portsmouth, UK on 11 January 2026. Photo: Graham Hunt
2. Josef Bursik - 6
Handed a return to the side in place of Schmid and made several saves, particularly a flying stop from Eze late on. As ever, though, beaten by Pompey’s set-piece weakness - and it doesn’t matter who is in goal for that. Photo: Graham Hunt
3. Terry Devlin - 8 - MOM
Another strong all-round display from the popular utility man. Did one crunching slide challenge on Lewis-Skelly in the first half and, on 77 minutes, he produced a flying save from Arsenal’s keeper. In fine form at the moment. Photo: Graham Hunt
4. Regan Poole - 7
Relished the chance to face Arsenal, brimming with commitment and determination. One superb first-half tackle when he read the pass and got there ahead of Martinelli with a crunching interception, and another tremendous block to deny Madueke shot. Photo: Graham Hunt