Tottenham draw Leeds as Mathys Tel own goal intensifies relegation fight
A controversial VAR decision and a late save by Antonin Kinsky seal a 1-1 result that leaves Tottenham in precarious position
Tottenham Hotspur failed to secure Premier League safety with a 1-1 draw against Leeds United at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The result leaves Spurs two points behind West Ham United, intensifying their fight to avoid relegation to the Championship. Leeds secured their survival following a 1-0 victory over Arsenal earlier in the week.
Tottenham took the lead through Mathys Tel in the 50th minute, but the draw was sealed when Tel attempted a bicycle kick in his own box, resulting in an own goal after contact with Leeds midfielder Ethan Ampadu. The decision was confirmed by VAR referee Jared Gillett. Leeds goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky made a crucial save to deny James Maddison a late equaliser.
The result leaves West Ham United two points behind Tottenham in the relegation table. Leeds confirmed their Premier League status after the match, while Tottenham's new head coach, Roberto De Zerbi, faces scrutiny over the team's tactical execution under pressure.
First-choice goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario was unavailable due to hernia surgery, leading to the debut of Antonin Kinsky. Kinsky, making his first appearance of the season, made a crucial stop to deny the visitors a late winner in the dying moments of the game.
James Maddison returned as a substitute after being ruled out earlier in the season due to injury. Despite his return, the late penalty appeal was denied by the referee, leaving Spurs unable to equalise after conceding the own goal.
This outcome marks another significant setback for Tottenham in their bid to avoid the drop, with the margin between safety and relegation now hanging by a thread. The draw underscores the fragility of their position as the season concludes.
