MacFarlane: The Result is Paramount

Chelsea's interim manager, Callum MacFarlane, expressed satisfaction with the 2-1 victory over Tottenham. He emphasized that the result was paramount in this match and was pleased with the three points, which have reignited the team's European aspirations.

"The result was the most important thing. I think we played a really good game. We had significant issues with energy and intensity after Saturday. We had to fight and stick together, and I believe we did that very well," MacFarlane stated.

"We didn't have much time to plan due to the quick turnaround between matches. Saturday was an emotional day because we were fully in the game. It all came down to switching off on Sunday and coming in for a day to prepare for Tottenham – a team that fights tooth and nail. We had to match their fight, character, and determination," the coach added.

Clashes with Tottenham are always intense, as it's one of the biggest London derbies.

"It was mentioned several times what intensity and tension would be felt in this match. Some players in the dressing room knew what to expect, but we couldn't approach it too emotionally," the boss commented.

"Sometimes our play wasn't pretty – you could feel it from the sidelines. We had to show character and a strong mentality. Things this team has been criticized for before. We knew there was no way we could outrun them or play at a high tempo. From the first minute, it was clear that some of the lads were still feeling the effects of the tough Wembley match. I don't know when their last game was, but they certainly didn't play on Saturday. They were much fresher. Whereas for us, so many lads left their hearts on Wembley and competed as equals with one of the best teams in Europe. We took a two-goal lead and held onto it well. Lately, we haven't been winning enough in front of our home crowd," the specialist concluded.