Wigan, FA Cup winners in 2013, had required penalty shootouts to get past non-league Hemel Hempstead Town and fourth-tier Barrow in the first two rounds but Bettoni’s winner meant they avoided that eventuality against a North End team 35 places above them in the league pyramid.
Preston boss Paul Heckingbottom made seven changes to the starting XI that beat Bristol City 2-0 on Sunday but his side, FA Cup quarter-finalists last season and currently fourth in the Championship, struggled for attacking rhythm throughout.
Milutin Osmajic, Michael Smith and Devine were sent on from the bench before Bettoni’s goal and the latter forced Tickle into his only two saves of note during the match.
Wigan went close to an opener twice in the first 15 minutes, with Wright guiding Joe Hungbo’s first-minute cross just past the far post and Dara Costelloe sending his effort wide after being put through on goal by Bettoni.
Once they had gone in front, substitute Asamoah provided a threat up front and he was denied a goal of his own by Preston goalkeeper Daniel Iversen after his pace had taken him away from the hosts’ defence.