Brazil forward Richarlison struck in the final minute as Tottenham secured a 2-1 victory over London rivals Chelsea in a heated pre-season friendly in Sydney on Saturday, with Sandro Tonali also opening his account for Spurs.
Tottenham took the lead in the 19th minute when Tonali’s effort from the edge of the box took a deflection and found the back of the net. Chelsea responded almost immediately, with Estevao restoring parity just two minutes later.
Spurs were reduced to 10 men shortly after the restart when defender Kevin Danso received a straight red card for a foul on Joao Pedro, allowing Chelsea to dominate much of the second half.
However, despite their numerical advantage and increased pressure, the Blues failed to find a winner before Richarlison delivered a late blow to seal victory for Tottenham in front of 80,363 spectators at Stadium Australia.
The defeat marked Xabi Alonso’s first loss as Chelsea manager after his side began pre-season with a 6-4 victory over Western Sydney Wanderers. The Spaniard has overseen several major signings as he looks to rebuild a team that finished 10th in the Premier League last season.
Tottenham, who narrowly avoided relegation after finishing 17th, have also strengthened their squad, bringing in players including Matheus Fernandes from West Ham and Tonali from Newcastle.
Spurs head back home after recording a 2-0 win over Auckland FC and a 1-1 draw against Sydney FC during their tour.
Chelsea’s latest additions are yet to fully join the squad, including Morgan Rogers, while new arrival Marco Palestra made his first appearance after joining from Atalanta. Cole Palmer and Estevao also featured from the start.
Tonali made his first start alongside fellow new signing Andy Robertson, while Tottenham were without Matheus Fernandes and James Maddison due to injury concerns.
The match began with early tension as Conor Gallagher’s challenge on Chelsea midfielder Dario Essugo sparked a confrontation between both sets of players, earning the midfielder a yellow card.
Tottenham eventually broke the deadlock through Tonali after Manor Solomon created space down the right before setting up the Italian midfielder, whose strike found the net via a deflection.
