Arsenal vs Middlesbrough Match Review

   Olivier Giroud scored a quick fire brace in the first half to seal the deal for Arsenal against Middlesbrough and advance to the Quarterfinals of the FA Cup winning 2-0.

Gunners celebrating the second goal

   Wenger fielded a very strong attacking lineup with Özil, Sanchez, Cazorla, and Welbeck all starting with Giroud leading the line. He also handed debut to the new signing Gabriel by pairing him alongside Koscielny in the Center of defense. Besides, Gibbs, Chambers and Flamini also started the game who all have been restricted to the bench in the past few weeks.

   Arsenal started the game on a high tempo and wasted a few chances before scoring the first goal which was a perfect team goal. Starting right from the keeper, every gunner made contact with the ball totalling a mere 19 touches before Gibbs crossed it to Giroud who found the back of the net with a near post finish. A minute later, Sanchez earned a corner on the left and caught switched-off defense of Boro by quickly delivering it to Giroud who made yet another, but this time an exquisite, near post finish .

   It was a complete performance from the gunners as they completely dominated the game and didn't let any clear cut chances to the Boros. It was very reminiscent of FIFA 15 performance when we select a 2 star team to play against!!! Honestly speaking, we could have easily won 6-0 or 7-0 but their keeper made some fantastic saves throughout the game.

   Every player was up to the mark but three players were outstanding in my opinion.

Olivier Giroud - Man of the Match for his brace. His awareness was equally responsible to let that second goal happen. Got to the end of other few chances as well but a first gunner hat trick still eludes him. Rating 8.5/10.

Mesut Özil - He was effortlessly elegant throughout the 90 minutes. It seemed like he was a having a walk in the park on a nice Sunday evening. Created 7 goal-scoring opportunities but was not lucky enough to register any assists. Rating 8.5/10

Santi Cazorla - Wore the Captain's Armband and was Responsible for creating the first goal. He was hard to be dispossessed and was a sight to behold. Rating 8.5/10

The draw for the next round will be made tonight. Will let you know through My Tweets as soon as it happens. Stay Connected!