Tottenham Hotspur climbed out of the Premier League relegation zone with an impressive victory over Aston Villa, as new head coach Roberto De Zerbi’s revival effort gathered momentum.
West Ham United’s defeat at Brentford on Saturday opened the door for Spurs to move above their rivals—and they seized the opportunity in style with one of their most complete performances of the season.
Despite missing key forwards Xavi Simons and Dominic Solanke, Spurs built on last weekend’s win at Wolverhampton Wanderers—their first league victory since December 28—to take control against their fifth-placed hosts.
Conor Gallagher opened the scoring in the 12th minute, netting his first goal since his January move from Atletico Madrid with a crisp low strike from 20 yards after an energetic start by the visitors.
Joao Palhinha came close to doubling the lead shortly after, striking the post with a powerful effort, but Spurs did not have to wait long for a second goal.
Richarlison made it 2-0 in the 25th minute, rising to head home from Mathys Tel’s delivery, leaving Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez with no chance.
Aston Villa boss Unai Emery made seven changes to the side that lost to Nottingham Forest in the Europa League semi-final first leg, clearly prioritising Thursday’s return leg—a decision that reflected in a below-par performance.
Substitute Emi Buendia grabbed a late consolation, heading in Matty Cash’s cross in stoppage time, but it proved insufficient as Spurs secured a vital win to move one point above West Ham with three matches remaining.
