Chelsea FC boosted their hopes of European qualification with a dramatic 2-1 Premier League victory over Tottenham Hotspur FC at Stamford Bridge, while Spurs were left fighting for survival heading into the final day of the season.
Tottenham started brightly and nearly benefited from an early defensive mistake when a misplaced backpass caused panic for goalkeeper Robert Sánchez. Moments later, Mathys Tel came close to opening the scoring, but his header struck the post.
Chelsea gradually took control and found the breakthrough in the 18th minute through captain Enzo Fernández. The midfielder curled a superb long-range effort into the bottom corner to score his 10th Premier League goal of the campaign.
The hosts continued to push forward, with Liam Delap wasting a good opportunity before Fernández rattled the crossbar with a powerful free-kick.
Tottenham struggled to create clear chances before halftime, although Chelsea goalkeeper Sánchez was forced into action after Richarlison tested him early in the second half.
Chelsea doubled their lead in the 67th minute when Pedro Neto delivered a deep cross that Fernández cleverly headed back across goal for Andrey Santos to finish from close range.
Spurs responded seven minutes later as Richarlison converted from inside the box after good work from substitute Pape Matar Sarr.
The visitors pushed hard for an equaliser late on, with James Maddison seeing a dangerous effort blocked before also sending a stoppage-time free-kick over the crossbar.
Chelsea held on to secure their first league win in eight matches and move back into the European qualification places.
For Tottenham, the defeat extended their miserable record at Stamford Bridge, where they are now winless in their last 10 league visits.
Roberto De Zerbi’s side must now avoid defeat against Everton FC on the final day or rely on results elsewhere to secure their Premier League status.
