Eberechi Eze's stunning strike secured Arsenal a 2-1 victory over Mansfield in the FA Cup fifth round, keeping their quadruple hopes alive. The Premier League leaders faced a potential upset at the One Call Stadium, where Mansfield had reached the fifth round for the first time since 1975. Noni Madueke opened the scoring in the 41st minute with a brilliant finish from Gabriel Martinelli's assist.

Nigel Clough's Mansfield refused to capitulate after falling behind. Will Evans, introduced at halftime, leveled the score five minutes after coming on, capitalizing on defensive hesitation to beat Kepa Arrizabalaga. The Stags, playing in the fifth round for the first time in 50 years, pushed Arsenal throughout and nearly took the lead when Max Dowman, Arsenal's youngest ever FA Cup player at 16, forced a save from Liam Roberts.

Arteta's tactical adjustments proved decisive. The double substitution in the 62nd minute brought on Eze, who made an immediate impact by finding space on the edge of the box and firing into the top corner. The goal ended Mansfield's memorable cup run and sent Arsenal into the quarterfinals for the first time since 2020. Despite Bukayo Saka's late introduction and a desperate Mansfield push, Arsenal held on to advance.