Spurs end Stamford Bridge curse with 2-0 victory over Chelsea

LONDON: Tottenham Hotspur celebrated a historic 2-0 victory over London rivals Chelsea, with their triumph at Stamford Bridge hailed as a significant turning point in their campaign this season.

The victory marked only Spurs’ second win at Chelsea’s home ground since 1990, ending a dismal record of just one victory in 41 visits to Stamford Bridge across all competitions.

Roberto De Zerbi’s side had previously been rooted to the bottom of the English Premier League table, but their revival began with a 3-1 victory over Coventry City last Monday before they defeated Chelsea on Saturday.

The result lifted Tottenham to 12th place in the league, pending the remaining weekend fixtures.

Spurs supporters erupted in celebration at the final whistle as though their team had won a title, while the players reportedly continued celebrating in the dressing room.

“I think we have been playing well, not just today,” De Zerbi told BBC Radio.

“Maybe the atmosphere is different now. The relationships between the players are getting stronger. With these two consecutive victories, they are becoming more confident in their own abilities.”

The Italian coach also acknowledged that his team had endured a difficult period.

“We have suffered enough,” he said.

Chelsea had appeared on course to secure a goalless draw before fortune favoured Spurs when Blues goalkeeper Mike Penders, making his first full Premier League appearance, inadvertently turned the ball into his own net following a corner delivered by Matheus Fernandes.

Mathys Tel then sealed all three points for Spurs with a counter-attacking goal 10 minutes later.

“This victory is very special because we have come to Chelsea so many times without managing to win,” the French forward told Sky Sports.

“Today, we showed a great mentality, and we need to enjoy this victory.”

Chelsea’s misery was compounded when creative midfielder Cole Palmer received the first red card of his senior career after being shown two yellow cards within nine minutes.

Throughout the match, Spurs dominated possession with 70 per cent and registered 15 attempts on goal compared with Chelsea’s seven.

Chelsea, who remain fourth in the league, struggled to find their best form and were also affected by the absence of leading scorer Joao Pedro, who sustained an injury during training on Friday and is expected to undergo further medical examinations in the coming days.

“We need to be more critical of ourselves. We need to perform at a higher level,” said Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso.

“Sometimes you feel good, but today, collectively and individually, we were not at our best.”

Commenting on Palmer’s red card, Alonso said he wanted to see greater self-control among his players.

“In situations like that, the first yellow card can be decisive,” he said.

“It is part of the team’s maturity process, as well as the development of individual players.”

Agencies