Chelsea climbed into the Premier League’s top four after Joao Pedro’s goal, set up by a sensational Moises Caicedo, secured a 1-0 victory against Tottenham at the Hotspur Stadium.
Chelsea secured all three points in a crucial London derby, defeating Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 at home. The professional victory saw Enzo Maresca’s side battle hard against their rivals to maintain their momentum.
The solitary goal of the match was scored by Joao Pedro, who benefited from an unselfish pass following a defensive error.
The win was sealed thanks to a solid defensive showing and midfield masterclass, which limited a largely ineffective Tottenham attack. The confident performance overall pleased the manager, Enzo Maresca.
Player ratings – Chelsea
Goalkeeper and Defence
Robert Sanchez – 9
The goalkeeper was outstanding, showing the consistency Chelsea needs week in and week out. He was confident and authoritative when coming out to collect crosses and demonstrated good distribution, though a relatively toothless Tottenham forward line meant he was not heavily tested with saves.
Reece James – 8
The captain put in a terrific shift, displaying a “big character” that influenced the team all over the pitch. He was strong in his duels and remained alert and dominant in his defensive duties, particularly against the threat of Richarlison later in the match.
Wesley Fofana – 7
The centre-back was comfortable and composed at the heart of the backline. It was a relatively smooth outing for him, though the opposition did not pose enough difficult questions to truly challenge the defence.
Trevoh Chalobah – 8
A truly influential performance marked by real aggression and physicality. He was decisive in duels and made several crucial interventions, justifying his high rating and demonstrating leadership at the back.
Marc Cucurella – 7
The left-back was diligent and sound in his defensive work, successfully keeping the opposing winger, Mohammed Kudus, quiet. Although he offered less attacking thrust than usual, he put in a reliable and solid shift overall.
Midfielders
Moises Caicedo – 8
He delivered a midfield masterclass, fully embracing his role as the team’s anchor. The Ecuadorian put in a significant shift that earned him a standing ovation from the home supporters upon his substitution.
Malo Gusto – 7
The versatile player, who operated in a defensive midfield role, put in a “sublime” performance. He flew up and down the pitch, providing energy and helping to keep the opposing midfielders off balance, eventually earning a standing ovation from the crowd.
Enzo Fernandez – 7
He had a strong day overall in the midfield. He was influential in possession but lacked precision in the final third, with one shot being fired at the goalkeeper when a simpler pass might have created a clearer goalscoring opportunity.
Forwards
Pedro Neto – 6
The winger was a constant threat, primarily due to his pace on the run. He had a couple of shooting chances in the second half where he perhaps could have been more clinical but continued to run with intensity until the final minutes, battling cramp.
Alejandro Garnacho – 6
He was energetic and effective in creating opportunities throughout the match. Although he was effervescent going forward, his final product remains an area for improvement.
Joao Pedro – 8
The Brazilian striker was productive, successfully getting all four of his shot attempts on target. While the goal itself was not spectacular, it was timely and crucial, marking a significant end to his recent scoring drought.
Had plenty of chances to add more but couldn’t get his finishing right.