Chelsea Edge Spurs in Fiery Derby to Reclaim Top Four Spot as Sancho Misses Chance to Impress

Chelsea returned to the Premier League top four with a gritty 1-0 win over Tottenham, extending their remarkable home record against their London rivals. Enzo Fernandez's header early in the second half proved decisive, following a smart cross from the returning Cole Palmer. The match was fiery and chaotic, with two goals disallowed via VAR and tempers flaring on both sides.

Nicolas Jackson's return provided Chelsea with a much-needed focal point in attack, and the team showed more attacking variety than in recent outings. However, Jadon Sancho — under scrutiny amid uncertainty over his loan — failed to make a lasting impression despite one decent chance. Meanwhile, Ange Postecoglou’s Spurs side were disjointed and sluggish, leaving Eintracht Frankfurt with little to fear ahead of their Europa League clash.

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• Chelsea 1-0 Tottenham: Enzo Fernandez scored the winner with a free header from Cole Palmer’s cross.
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• Maresca relief: The win sees Chelsea return to fourth place in the league, easing growing pressure on the head coach.
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• Sancho struggles: Despite some bright moments, Sancho failed to take his chance, with Chelsea still able to cancel his loan deal for £5m.
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• Tactical tweaks: Palmer played off the left to overload Tottenham’s right side, while Jackson’s return brought fluidity and urgency.
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• VAR drama: Moisés Caicedo and Pape Sarr both had goals ruled out after lengthy reviews — both decisions were ultimately correct.
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• Maresca’s message: The Italian was highly animated on the touchline, aware of the game’s significance for Chelsea’s top-four ambitions.