Cole Palmer’s double from the penalty spot helped Chelsea stage a dramatic comeback from an early two-goal deficit to secure a thrilling 4-3 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in a pulsating London derby on Sunday.
The win narrows Chelsea’s gap with Premier League leaders Liverpool, who remain four points ahead.
Chelsea’s evening began disastrously with two errors from full-back Marc Cucurella gifting Tottenham an early advantage.
Dominic Solanke capitalized on Cucurella’s slip to net the opener, and Dejan Kulusevski doubled the lead minutes later after another slip from the Spaniard.
Tottenham seemed poised for a statement win, but Chelsea turned the tide with a commanding performance.
Jadon Sancho kick-started the visitors’ resurgence with a thunderous strike in the 17th minute, giving Chelsea the momentum they needed.
After dominating much of the second half, the equalizer came through Palmer, who calmly converted a penalty following Yves Bissouma’s reckless foul on Moisés Caicedo.
Enzo Fernández then propelled Chelsea ahead with a powerful volley in the 73rd minute, following an electrifying solo run by Palmer.
The 21-year-old England international sealed the game in style, drawing another penalty after being fouled by Pape Matar Sarr and executing a cheeky “Panenka” to put Chelsea firmly in control.
Despite Son Heung-Min’s late consolation goal, Tottenham could not prevent their second defeat of the week.
Chelsea, now on a seven-match unbeaten streak with four consecutive Premier League wins, sit second in the standings with 31 points from 15 games.
Manager Enzo Maresca, however, remains cautious about their title chances despite their impressive form.
“They are the top scorers in the division with 35 goals,” he noted, “and in Palmer, have a player at the peak of his powers.”
Palmer’s contributions since joining from Manchester City have been remarkable, with 33 goals and 17 assists in just 48 Premier League appearances for the Blues. The young forward was instrumental in turning around what initially appeared to be a nightmare for the visitors.
Cucurella’s unfortunate start set the stage for Tottenham’s fast start, but his substitution and Chelsea’s tactical adjustments marked a clear turning point. After Sancho’s strike reduced the deficit, the visitors maintained relentless pressure, eventually outclassing the hosts.
Tottenham, now 11th with 20 points, face increasing scrutiny under head coach Ange Postecoglou. As Chelsea continue their ascent, Tottenham’s season is veering off track, underscoring the contrasting fortunes of these London rivals.
