Joao Palhinha’s late strike earned Tottenham their first Premier League win of 2026 with a 1-0 victory over Wolves, but they remain in the relegation zone.

Substitute midfielder Palhinha turned home from inside the six-yard box in the 82nd minute to end Spurs’ 15-game winless run and hand Roberto De Zerbi his first victory in charge of the club.

However, with West Ham also scoring late to secure a 2-1 victory over Everton, Spurs remain 18th and two points adrift of safety with four games left.

Spurs lacked creativity and looked set to miss out on a chance to pick up three valuable points in their bid for survival after knee injuries forced Dominic Solanke and Xavi Simons off.

Jose Sa was not forced into action until he had to get down to his left to keep out Rodrigo Bentancur’s powerful header in the 69th minute, after Simons had blazed a great chance over.

Wolves grew in confidence, but Spurs finally made the breakthrough when Pedro Porro’s corner fell to the feet of Richarlison, who stabbed the ball into the path of an unmarked Palhinha, played onside by Matt Doherty.

Spurs had Antonin Kinsky to thank for ensuring they held onto the three points, though. The goalkeeper produced a sensational save to palm Joao Gomes’ free-kick away from the top-right corner in the 98th minute.

Wolves, whose relegation to the Championship was confirmed on Monday, remain bottom of the table.

Data Debrief: Spurs’ winning wait is over

By securing their first win since a 1-0 success against Crystal Palace on December 28, Spurs avoided equalling their worst winless league run since 1935.

Palhinha’s goal was his fourth in the Premier League this season – only Richarlison (nine) has more for Tottenham. It also means seven of his 11 top-flight goals have come from corners.

His goal was the first winner scored by a Spurs substitute in the Premier League since February 2024, when Brennan Johnson did so against Brighton (2-1 victory).

Wolves’ 23rd league defeat of the season equals their most in a 38-game top-flight campaign, which occurred in 1905-06 and 2011-12.