English Premier League leaders Arsenal beat third tier side Oxford United in the FA Cup competition to book a date with the premiership champions Manchester City
Eddie Nketiah struck twice in the second half to help Arsenal to a 3-0 win on Monday, December 9th, 2022 at Oxford United and set up an enticing FA Cup fourth-round clash at Manchester City.
The Gunners will travel to the Etihad on the final weekend of January thanks to a vastly-improved performance during the second 45 minutes at the Kassam Stadium in the third round of the FA Cup.
Mikel Arteta’s side failed to record a single shot on target during a drab first half as Oxford frustrated the Premier League leaders, but Mohamed Elneny set them on their way 10 minutes into the second period with his first goal of the season.
Nketiah then confirmed Arsenal’s progress into the fourth round as he continued his impressive form in front of goal with two composed finishes that ended Oxford’s stubborn resistance.
Oxford boss Karl Robinson said his players “did the club proud” with their display against the Premier League leaders, while he questioned the awarding of the free-kick from which Arsenal opened the scoring.
What’s next?
Oxford United’s next game sees them return to League One action with a trip to Fleetwood on Saturday – kick-off 3pm.
Arsenal’s next outing is the North London derby, with the Gunners travelling to Tottenham for a crucial Premier League fixture next Sunday.
Mikel Arteta’s side then face another huge Premier League test against Manchester United on Sunday January 22.
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