Chelsea Secure Crucial Win at Cost of Former Boss Pochettino's Spurs

With a well-earned 2-0 victory against London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday night, Chelsea maintained their hopes of qualifying for Europe. The victory raised spirits at Stamford Bridge, giving manager Mauricio Pochettino—who will always have a particular place in his heart for Spurs—reasons to be thankful to his former team.

With four games remaining in a tight race for a European spot, the Blues, who are currently two points behind seventh-place Newcastle United, secured the victory with goals from Trevoh Chalobah and Nicolas Jackson. This crucial victory could significantly impact Pochettino’s future at Chelsea.

Even though Pochettino would never participate in Chelsea fans’ joyous “We hate Tottenham” shouts, he probably appreciates the restored harmony at the Bridge. This victory, along with the team’s increased work ethic, is much needed after a season of patchy play.

For Chelsea, the timing couldn’t be more ideal. With only one victory in their last 32 Premier League visits to Stamford Bridge, their London rivals have an appalling record. Spurs’ final victory in any competition came under Pochettino’s direct supervision in 2018.

Chelsea showed promise even with 14 first-team players unavailable. Conor Gallagher provided enthusiasm, Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke displayed moments of skill, and Jackson scored his eleventh goal of the year.

Chelsea Secure Crucial Win at Cost of Former Boss Pochettino’s Spurs

“After a game, this is the happiest I’ve been this season,” stated Pochettino. “We played with the passion and competition we’ve been trying to achieve. This is how things can get better.”

Alfie Gilchrist impressed against Son Heung-Min, and Josh Acheampong and Jimi Tauriainen, both debutants, brought new life to the Blues. Chelsea may be able to salvage a tumultuous season if they have a concrete goal to strive for.

Meanwhile, manager Ange Postecoglou is scrutinized due to Tottenham’s recent performance. New suspicions are being stoked by the sharp contrast to his early success with Spurs when their offensive “Angeball” style was much praised. Their prospects of qualifying for the Champions League are threatened with three straight losses.

Postecoglou’s annoyance was palpable over the entire game. His rage throughout a dull first half was a far cry from his normal disposition. Chalobah’s goal emphasized Tottenham’s continuous problems, which include their susceptibility to defending set-pieces.

Jackson’s goal in the second half, which came after a free kick by Cole Palmer, made Spurs’ problems worse. Despite his past denials of set-piece problems, Postecoglou is under increased pressure for his lack of progress in this vital area.

Postecoglou acknowledged, “We lost faith in our style, and that’s on me.” “We performed far below what was required of us. Although it’s a necessary part of our development that we haven’t been at our best lately, tonight was subpar.”

Chelsea won comfortably at the end, which gave Pochettino more confidence. Although his former manager was probably irritated by the fans’ “Tottenham Hotspur, it’s happened again” cry, Chelsea desperately needed this victory right now.