MANSFIELD, England - Arsenal narrowly avoided an FA Cup upset Saturday, edging past third-tier Mansfield Town 2-1 to reach the quarter-finals. Eberechi Eze's decisive strike in the 66th minute secured the victory.
Noni Madueke opened the scoring for Arsenal before halftime. Mansfield equalized through Will Evans early in the second half, setting up a tense finish.
Mikel Arteta's side, featuring young debutants, faced a stern test from an aggressive Mansfield squad. Despite the pressure, Madueke found the net for Arsenal's 100th goal this season.
Evans quickly responded for the hosts after the break, but Eze's powerful shot from the edge of the box ultimately proved the difference, keeping Arsenal's quadruple aspirations alive.