The wait is finally over! On Saturday, April 25, 2026, Tottenham Hotspur secured their first Premier League victory of the calendar year, defeating Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-0 at Molineux. In a match defined by grit rather than glamour, Roberto De Zerbi claimed his first win as Spurs boss, keeping the club’s survival hopes flickering in a frantic relegation battle.
Despite the three points, results elsewhere mean Spurs remain in 18th place, but the "curse" of 2026 has officially been broken.
1. Match Highlights: The Super-Sub Strike
For 80 minutes, it looked like another afternoon of frustration for the traveling Lilywhites, especially after losing key stars to injury.
Injury Blows: Spurs' rhythm was disrupted early as both Dominic Solanke and Xavi Simons were forced off with knee injuries. The sight of two talismans leaving the pitch sent waves of anxiety through the away end.
The Breakthrough (82’): The deadlock was finally shattered by the substitutes. A Pedro Porro corner caused chaos in the box; Richarlison stabbed the ball into the path of João Palhinha, who turned it home from close range to spark wild celebrations.
The Kinsky Save (90+8’): Wolves almost snatched a point in the dying seconds. João Gomes unleashed a rocket of a free-kick toward the top corner, but Antonín Kinsky produced a world-class save to preserve the clean sheet and the win.
2. Strategic Impact: The Great Escape?
This win ends a miserable 15-game winless run dating back to December 28, avoiding a streak that would have equaled a club-worst record from 1935.
Relegation Reality: Because West Ham beat Everton 2-1 with a last-minute goal, Spurs remain two points adrift of safety. With only four games left, every match is now a cup final.
Wolves’ Fate: Already confirmed for the Championship, Wolves remain bottom of the table on 17 points.
De Zerbi’s Blueprint: The Italian tactician has now picked up four points from his first three games, instilling a "fight-to-the-end" mentality that was missing earlier in the spring.
3. Key Performers
João Palhinha: Came off the bench to score his 4th goal of the season. His knack for being in the right place during set-pieces is proving invaluable.
Antonín Kinsky: The hero of the final minute. His save essentially earned Spurs an extra two points today.
Richarlison: Provided the vital assist and worked tirelessly to lead the line after Solanke’s early exit.