The Premier League have outlined why Rodrigo Bentancur was not sent off for his fierce challenge on Chelsea captain Reece James.
The Uruguayan midfielder tried to win a 50/50 challenge, but caught James' ankle with his studs instead of the ball. The Blues skipper was incensed when the Spurs midfielder was only shown a yellow card.
Trevoh Chalobah even earned himself a yellow card for dissent in response to the tackle. The challenge was looked at by VAR, but the referee's original decision was allowed to stand.
On the Premier League Match Centre page on X, they wrote: "The referee’s call of yellow card to Bentancur was checked and confirmed by VAR – with the contact deemed to be a reckless challenge and not serious foul play."
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At the time, Chelsea had taken the lead through a goal from Joao Pedro. Some sensational pressing from Moises Caicedo resulted in the midfielder winning the ball from Kevin Danso in the penalty area, before he was able to toe the ball to the Brazilian.
It was a huge goal for Pedro, as he had missed a presentable opportunity when Spurs made a similar mistake earlier in the game. Moreover, it was the ex-Brighton and Hove Albion forward's first Premier League goal since the 2-0 home win over Fulham, back in August.
Djed Spence was also close to landing himself into trouble. He went through the back of Blues forward Pedro Neto, who was left in a heap after the tackle. Unlike Bentancur, the ex-Middlesbrough full back did not even receive a caution for the challenge.
Rodrigo Bentancur tackle on Reece James
Bentancur's tackle was high and late (Image: Sky Sports)
Ex-Manchester United and England midfielder Owen Hargreaves also said Bentancur should have been sent off for his tackle. He said: "It's a red card. In real time or replay. I don't know how these guys can't see it. He (James) is fortunate not to get injured."
Jamie Redknapp was also surprised the punishment was not more severe. He accused the South American of trying to send a message to James with his fierce tackle. The ex-Liverpool defender said: "Just about, he knows exactly what he's doing there. He's definitely leaving a little bit on him. He's late, it's aggressive, he's over the top of the ball. Fraction higher, I think that's a red card."
Tottenham were in third place coming into the contest. After Chelsea's shock home loss to Sunderland in the previous game-week, the Blues were three points behind the north Londoners.
Enzo Maresca, Manager of Chelsea, speaks with Reece James of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on November 01, 2025 in London, England.
James was able to carry on playing the match (Image: 2025 Chelsea FC)
Both sides were involved in League Cup action midweek. Spurs were knocked out by Newcastle United, who secured a 2-0 victory through Fabian Schar and Nick Woltemade.
Meanwhile, Chelsea only just overcame Wolverhampton Wanderers 4-3. Andrey Santos, Tyrique George and Estevao scored in the first half, but Wolves dealt the Blues a scare through goals from Tolu Arokodare and a strike from David Moller Wolfe.
After Liam Delap was sent off, Jamie Gittens secured the victory with a stunning half volley, before Wolfe scored another to force a tense finish.
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Chelsea flag prior the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Leg One match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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