The London derby remained goalless for much of the contest, with both goalkeepers making important saves, before Tottenham moved ahead in the 77th minute. Mateus Fernandes delivered a corner and, under pressure from Jan Paul van Hecke, Chelsea goalkeeper Penders punched the ball into his own net.
Chelsea’s task became harder three minutes later when Palmer received a second yellow card for a challenge on Conor Gallagher. Mathys Tel then settled the match in the 87th minute, cutting inside before finishing to give Tottenham their first league win at Stamford Bridge since 2018.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso was disappointed with his side’s intensity and execution, particularly before the decisive goal.
“I think that there were many different moments in the game. First half I wanted more intensity. We wanted high pressing but we were not strong enough in duels.
“We had some kind of chances in the first half and in the second half, we talked and we started a bit better. We had a good chance with Pedro [Neto]. We had spoken about how important the first goal would be and when they scored I felt 'ah, this is not what we wanted'.
“Straightaway almost, came the red card. Disappointed with the result and we have to be honest with the performance, we could have played better.”
Alonso said Chelsea needed to take responsibility for their performance, while also backing Penders after the costly error.
“This is football. It is about doing great things and dealing with difficult moments. We will support Mike. We come together from these moments.”
Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi believed his players had earned the victory through their preparation, effort and ability to compete in the decisive moments.
“I think we deserved to win. The players worked very well, prepared very well the game. This morning, yesterday, all days in the last week and the qualities of the players are very clear.
“I'm happy for the spirit of the players. I think we have to change the last part of the history of our club. I would like to follow in this way.”
De Zerbi said his tactical plan was designed to exploit spaces against Chelsea’s organised structure, giving James Maddison freedom behind the midfield.
“We knew Chelsea play very well, they have clear organisation, clear structure on the pitch. We prepared our players with two midfielders and James Maddison with freedom, where he smells the right position.”
For Tottenham, the result offered a significant away derby victory and a second win in a week. Chelsea, meanwhile, were left to reflect on missed opportunities, Penders’ error and Palmer’s dismissal.