Joao Pedro finally ended his Chelsea goal drought as the Brazilian sealed a crucial 1-0 win over Tottenham on Saturday. The striker’s first-half finish lifted Enzo Maresca’s side into the Premier League’s top four, extending Spurs’ miserable home run in 2025.
Joao Pedro Strikes to Lift Chelsea
Chelsea began brightly and Garnacho tested Vicario with a long-distance effort in the early stages of the first half. Tottenham’s Bergvall then suffered a head injury and had to come off; on came Xavi Simons in his place after a rather heated clash with the medical team.
Joao Pedro missed a close-range opportunity following a deflection from Pedro Porro, however, he made up for it just a moment later. Moises Caicedo seized the ball near the Tottenham box, sliding it on to Pedro, who blasted it into the goal in the 34th minute. The goal marked his first in nine games, and was only his third goal since making a £60 million transfer from Brighton.
The Blues nearly doubled their lead when Pedro’s fierce shot forced a fine save from Vicario. Enzo Fernandez also headed over from Reece James’ cross as Chelsea continued to press.
Tottenham’s Struggles Continue
It continued the pattern of frustration for Tottenham’s fans. They have not won a league game at their home ground since August. Burnt out by a high pressing strategy, Thomas Frank’s team offered nothing in creativity or tempo, giving away possession far too easily and failing to test Robert Sanchez.
Before halftime, Mohammed Kudus had the best chance for Spurs, but Sanchez was quick enough to keep Chelsea ahead. Rodrigo Bentancur was unlucky to remain on the pitch after a reckless challenge on James which further annoyed Spurs fans.
Author’s Opinion
There’s no doubt Chelsea are building up momentum under Maresca, with three wins from their last four league matches. The returning form of Joao Pedro could be key as the Blues look to clinch Champions League qualification. Tottenham appear troubled under Frank, a stale style of football, with no home form to speak of, has left all the pressure on the new head coach.
As featured on Chelseanews.com