Photo via Sky Sports

Dowman dazzles with double as Arsenal cruise past Ipswich

Sixteen-year-old prodigy Max Dowman marked his season debut in style, finding the net twice to propel Arsenal to a 4-2 triumph against Ipswich Town in the Carabao Cup third round. Mikel Arteta overhauled his starting eleven with nine modifications following the weekend win over Sunderland, yet the Gunners asserted control immediately.

Dowman initiated the scoring seven minutes in via an impressive solo dash past Cedric Kipre, followed nine minutes later by Noni Madueke's sharp volley set up by Mikel Merino after Bruno Guimaraes regained possession. Despite striker Viktor Gyokeres being limited to a mere six touches during the opening 45 minutes, the London club extended their commanding lead moments after the interval.

Dowman secured his brace in the 47th minute by calmly converting a Martin Zubimendi delivery, before Merino added Arsenal's fourth just before the hour mark with an accurate attempt clipping inside the left post. The hosts mounted a late pushback at Portman Road, as Anis Mehmeti converted from nearby in the 62nd minute and Chuba Akpom squeezed a deflected effort past goalkeeper Kepa during stoppage time.