SOCCER: Chelsea leave Spurs still at risk of relegation with 2-1 win

Chelsea secured a 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday, boosting their hopes of European football next season while leaving Spurs still battling to avoid relegation ahead of the Premier League finale. Enzo Fernandez starred with a goal and an assist as Chelsea climbed to eighth place in the standings.

REUTERS

May 20, 2026

Chelsea's Enzo Fernández celebrates after scoring the opening goal against Tottenham Hotspur during their Premier League match at Stamford Bridge in London, Britain, on May 19, 2026.

Peter Cziborra / Reuters

Chelsea boosted their hopes of securing European football next season after defeating Tottenham Hotspur, 2-1, in the Premier League on Tuesday at Stamford Bridge.

Enzo Fernandez opened the scoring for Chelsea in the 18th minute with a powerful dipping shot that goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky failed to stop. The Blues doubled their advantage in the 67th minute when Fernandez controlled a high ball before setting up Andrey Santos, who finished from close range.

Tottenham responded in the 74th minute through Richarlison, but the visitors were unable to find an equalizer as Chelsea held on for the victory.

The defeat leaves Spurs still in danger of relegation heading into the final day of the season on Sunday. Tottenham remain two points above West Ham United in the final unresolved relegation spot, although Spurs hold a significantly better goal difference. A draw against Everton in their last match would likely secure their Premier League survival.

Chelsea, meanwhile, climbed to eighth place in the standings, enough to secure a spot in next season’s UEFA Conference League. The Blues are now just one point behind Brighton & Hove Albion in the race for a UEFA Europa League berth.

Earlier this week, Chelsea announced the appointment of former Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso as their next manager following a disappointing 2025-26 campaign. -Writing by William Schomberg; Editing by Ken Ferris/Reuters