One set-piece, two controversial refereeing decisions and a superb performance by goalkeeper Khiara Keating ensured Manchester City’s progress to the FA Cup quarter-finals.
Both teams were chasing their first piece of silverware in some time, with Arsenal having won just one trophy in the last five years.
The first half was cagey as the sides kept possession rather than taking a more risky approach that would leave them vulnerable to a counter-attack.
City, despite the dynamism of Khadija Shaw, Chloe Kelly and Lauren Hemp, did not register a shot on target.