A lot was riding on the result of the game between Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge this evening. Of course, the Blues needed all three points to help in their quest to qualify for a European competition. On the other hand, realistically, even a draw would be enough to secure Spurs’ place in the Premier League and avoid relegation.
Chelsea started well with Enzo Fernandez scoring a screamer. That was followed by Andrey Santos getting his first goal in the Premier League. It put the Blues 2-0 for the first time since who knows when.
But then, they allowed Tottenham Hotspur back into the game. Richarlison made it 2-1, setting up a nervous finish for the Blues. Ultimately, they did win as Spurs were not able to find a second.
Chelsea must hand Enzo Fernandez a new contract
Fernandez does not get the credit that he deserves a lot of the time. But he has more than 20 goal contributions this season as a midfielder.
His output has improved so much over the past couple of seasons. You cannot deny it any longer. He is one of the most effective midfielders in football right now.
In the game against Tottenham Hotspur, he opened the scoring brilliantly with a long-range effort. And then, he set up Santos’ goal as well with a calm cushioned pass from Pedro Neto’s cross.
There are still question marks over Fernandez’s future. Real Madrid, PSG and Manchester City have all been linked with him. But Chelsea must do everything possible to keep him. In this case, this might mean handing him an improved contract this summer.
Chelsea’s inexperience very clear again
When Chelsea went 2-0 up, this should have become a comfortable game for them. Just look at how Man City handled the FA Cup final.
Chelsea did have their moments. But when Man City finally found their goal, they completely took over the game after that and controlled everything, from the pace to the tempo. The Blues could not even play it out of their own half and at no point did it look like they were going to equalise.
Contrast that with this performance from Chelsea. They immediately gave back a goal after going 2-0 up. And then, they went completely defensive to end the game. Yes, they hung on for a win, but it was not ideal.
West Ham United handed a favour
Just a draw would have been enough for Tottenham to stay up in the Premier League, thanks to their significantly better goal difference. But now, their place in the top flight remains up in the air.
It sets up for a very interesting final day of the season. Both West Ham and Tottenham are still in contention for relegation.
One of Chelsea’s London rivals will go down. Who will it be? That remains to be seen. But the Blues did do the Hammers a favour tonight. Now, it is up to them and their luck to save them from the drop.