Tottenham Hotspur remain entrenched in the Premier League relegation zone after a 1-0 loss to Sunderland, extending their winless run to 14 matches , their longest drought since 1935.
In what was the first match under new manager Roberto De Zerbi, Tottenham showed effort but lacked attacking sharpness, as a second-half deflected strike from Nordi Mukiele proved decisive.
The result leaves Tottenham third from bottom with 30 points from 32 matches, intensifying concerns of a first relegation since 1977. Meanwhile, Sunderland climbed to 10th place with 46 points, keeping their hopes of European qualification alive.
Tottenham started brightly and were briefly awarded a penalty after Randal Kolo Muani went down in the box, but the decision was overturned following a VAR review.
Sunderland created the clearer opportunities throughout the match. Attempts from Granit Xhaka and Brian Brobbey tested Tottenham’s defence, with goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky producing key saves before halftime.
The breakthrough came just past the hour mark when Mukiele’s shot deflected off a defender, wrong-footing the goalkeeper and finding the net.
Tottenham’s problems were compounded by an injury to captain Cristian Romero, who was forced off after a collision, while Kinsky continued despite a head injury.
Speaking after the match, De Zerbi defended his players’ effort, stating:
“I cannot say anything to players because they gave their best in terms of attitude and spirit. I’m sure if we are able to win a game then everything will change.”
Sunderland, managed by Régis Le Bris, held firm to secure their first league win over Tottenham since 2010.
With six matches remaining, Tottenham now face a critical battle to avoid relegation, starting with a crucial fixture against Brighton & Hove Albion.
