Joao Pedro’s first-half goal earned Chelsea a deserved 1-0 win over a poor Tottenham side, as Moises Caicedo starred in midfield to seal derby bragging rights.
Chelsea claimed a deserved 1-0 victory over Tottenham at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with Joao Pedro’s first-half finish proving decisive in a largely one-sided London derby.
The Brazilian forward ended a 10-game goal drought with a calm strike in the 34th minute, capitalizing on a defensive blunder by Micky van de Ven. Moises Caicedo’s relentless pressing forced the mistake, before the Ecuadorian unselfishly squared the ball for Pedro to slot past Guglielmo Vicario from close range.
It was no more than Chelsea deserved after controlling much of the early play. Pedro had already seen two efforts denied by Vicario, while Enzo Fernandez tested the Italian keeper from distance.
Tottenham struggled throughout the game, registering just three shots in total and only one on target. Mohamed Kudus produced their best effort in first-half stoppage time, but his low shot was comfortably gathered by Robert Sanchez.
Manager Thomas Frank made several attacking substitutions, including Xavi Simons and Richarlison, but none could inject life into a dull Spurs attack. The hosts’ expected goals (xG) of 0.10 was their lowest since records began in 2012, which summed up their lack of creativity and penetration.
The home fans made their feelings clear, booing loudly at half-time and again at the final whistle as Tottenham’s poor home form continued. They have now won just three of their last 19 Premier League home matches.
While Pedro earned the headlines for his goal, Moises Caicedo was undoubtedly the standout performer. The Ecuadorian midfielder delivered a masterclass, breaking up play and dictating Chelsea’s tempo with composure and power.
His pressing set the tone for Enzo Maresca’s side, who looked more energetic and organized than their North London rivals. Caicedo’s control in midfield restricted Spurs’ passing lanes, while his ability to win duels drew comparisons to the best defensive midfielders in Europe.
Chelsea’s defensive pairing of Wesley Fofana and Trevoh Chalobah also impressed, limiting Randal Kolo Muani and Kudus to scraps. Meanwhile, Vicario’s heroics in the Spurs goal prevented a heavier defeat, denying Pedro and substitute Jamie Gittens late on.
Chelsea have now beaten Tottenham in five consecutive meetings and have lost only one of their last 18 encounters in all competitions. The Blues also climbed to sixth in the Premier League table, level on points with fifth-placed Spurs but trailing on goal difference.
Tottenham’s recent struggles in London derbies continued, with this their third successive home defeat against a capital rival. Only Wolves have made more errors leading to goals this season than Frank’s side.
Tottenham host Copenhagen in the Champions League on Tuesday, 4 November, before facing Manchester United at home on Saturday, 8 November. Chelsea travel to Azerbaijan to meet Qarabag on Wednesday, 5 November, and then welcome struggling Wolves to Stamford Bridge on 8 November.
For Enzo Maresca’s men, this was a statement of composure and control in hostile territory. For Spurs, it was another painful reminder of just how far they despite their early-season promise.
