Tottenham Hotspur clinched a Premier League top-four spot by defeating Everton in a thrilling encounter.
Richarlison netted his fourth goal in three matches, opening the scoring against his former club, while Son Heung-min later doubled Spurs’ advantage.
Everton rightfully narrowed the gap with a goal from Andre Gomes, marking his return to the Premier League after his last appearance in May 2022.
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Spurs climb to fourth place, surpassing Manchester City, who were absent from league action due to their participation in the Club World Cup.
Everton’s defeat halted a four-match winning streak, leaving them just four points above the relegation zone.
Richarlison, the Brazilian forward, gave the hosts an early lead, neatly slotting in Brennan Johnson’s low cross at the near post after just nine minutes.
Son extended Spurs’ lead shortly afterward, with Johnson playing a pivotal role once more. The Wales international unleashed a powerful drive from a short corner, forcing Everton keeper Jordan Pickford to palm the ball away.
Son took advantage of the opportunity, sliding the ball home while Pickford found himself amidst a crowd of players, unable to intervene.
Everton displayed significant attacking intent in an entertaining match, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin found the net five minutes into the second half. However, the video assistant referee disallowed the goal due to a foul by Gomes on Emerson Royal in the build-up.
Gomes, who spent the previous season on loan at Lille and faced a setback with a calf injury, partially redeemed himself with a splendid volleyed strike in the 82nd minute, setting the stage for an exciting finish. Nevertheless, Spurs managed to hold on to secure the victory.