Port Vale 0–2 Arsenal: Eze and Trossard Fire Gunners Through in Cup Tie

Eberechi Eze scored his first Arsenal goal after just eight minutes, finishing calmly from Myles Lewis-Skelly’s flick to give the Gunners an early lead. The summer signing almost doubled his tally before half-time when he was played through by Mikel Merino, but Port Vale goalkeeper Joe Gauci produced an excellent save.

Port Vale responded with determination and made life difficult for their Premier League opponents. They worked hard and threatened from long throws and corners, but they failed to record a single shot on target, leaving Kepa Arrizabalaga with little to do in the Arsenal goal.

The evening also provided a stage for 15-year-old Max Dowman, who came on after Bukayo Saka was withdrawn. The academy midfielder impressed again, creating two clear chances in quick succession for Viktor Gyökeres and Leandro Trossard. His performances will only increase the calls for him to feature more often.

Vale almost found an equaliser in the 75th minute when substitute Devante Cole curled a shot just over from distance. Arsenal eventually secured the win late on when Trossard, introduced from the bench, finished clinically in the 86th minute to settle the tie and confirm their place in the fourth round.

Mikel Arteta made nine changes from the 1-1 draw with Manchester City at the weekend. William Saliba, Ben White, and Christian Nørgaard all completed the full match as part of their return from injury. Saka also continued his recovery, playing 63 minutes before being substituted to avoid any risk after taking several challenges.

Arsenal dominated possession with over 80% and completed 789 passes, though they lacked the sharpness to finish the game earlier. Even so, Arteta will be pleased with the victory, the clean sheet, valuable minutes for returning players, and the exciting cameo from a young prospect. The Gunners now look ahead to hosting Brighton & Hove Albion at the Emirates in the next round of the Carabao Cup.