London, Jan 9 (IANS) Tottenham Hotspur can thank the video assistant referee for their 1-0 victory over Chelsea in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-finals.

VAR was decisive in setting the stage for the only goal of the London derby at Wembley here on Tuesday, reports Efe.

Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga fouled Spurs striker Harry Kane in the box in the 25th minute and referee Michael Oliver awarded a penalty but then decided to consult VAR to determine whether the attacking player was onside.

Once VAR official Chris Kavanagh gave the nod, Oliver pointed to the spot and Kane converted.

At the other end of the field, Spurs keeper Paulo Gazzaniga survived both of Chelsea's first-half chances with some help from the woodwork.

N'Golo Kante hit the post on close range after Kane's goal and Gazzaniga redirected Callum Hudson-Odoi's shot onto the post on the second occasion.

Chelsea dominated for stretches of the second half but failed to equalize.

The second leg is set for January 24 at Stamford Bridge.

--IANS ajb/mr