10-MAN SPURS BEAT CHELSEA 2-1 FOR ALONSO’S FIRST DEFEAT
Tottenham Hotspur produced a spirited performance to defeat Chelsea 2-1 in a pre-season friendly despite playing with 10 men, handing Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso his first defeat in charge.
Spurs took the lead with an impressive attacking display before being reduced to 10 players following a red card, forcing them to defend resolutely for much of the contest.
Chelsea responded by increasing the pressure and managed to pull a goal back, but Tottenham remained organised at the back and capitalised on a counter-attack to restore their advantage.
Despite enjoying more possession and creating several scoring opportunities, Chelsea were unable to find an equaliser as Tottenham’s defence held firm until the final whistle.
The result marked a morale-boosting victory for Spurs ahead of the new season, showcasing the team’s resilience, discipline, and determination even while playing with a numerical disadvantage.
For Chelsea, the defeat was the first under new manager Xabi Alonso, who is expected to use the match as an opportunity to assess his squad and identify areas that need improvement before the competitive campaign begins.
Both teams will continue their pre-season preparations with further fixtures as they build fitness, refine tactics, and finalise their squads ahead of the new football season.
