Tottenham’s top-four hopes were given a setback on Thursday night when Mauricio Pochettino’s Chelsea defeated them 2-0 at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues, who had previously defeated Spurs 4-1 earlier this season, extended their winning streak over their rivals.
Ange Postecoglou’s side came to Stamford Bridge hoping to improve their chances of finishing in the top four.
Chelsea, on the other hand, had different intentions, capitalizing on their opponent’s issues at home.
Trevoh Chalobah exploited Spurs’ weaknesses at set-pieces, breaking the deadlock with a header from a Conor Gallagher free-kick in the 24th minute.
Although there was a VAR review, the goal counted, giving the Blues the needed lead.
While Tottenham had more time with the ball in the second 45 minutes, they failed to be clinical in front of Chelsea’s goalpost.
Chelsea sealed the win with Nicolas Jackson’s goal in the 72nd minute, courtesy of a rebound from a Cole Palmer free-kick.
Chelsea’s victory bolsters their chances of European qualification, with Europa League or Europa Conference League being the available options.
The game also marks a significant improvement from the Blues 12th-place finish last season.
On the other hand, Spurs now find themselves seven points adrift of the top four with four games remaining.
With a crucial game in hand against Manchester City, who are vying for the Premier League title, Spurs face another uphill battle in their quest for Champions League football.
