Celtic's Europa League aspirations suffered a devastating blow at Celtic Park as a controversial late handball decision against Kelechi Iheanacho handed Braga a dramatic 2-1 victory in Group H.
Late Drama Turns Celtic's Night Sour
In a match that had looked destined for a hard-fought draw, Portuguese side Braga snatched all three points in the most dramatic fashion. With just minutes remaining and the score locked at 1-1, substitute Iheanacho found himself at the centre of a heart-breaking controversy.
The Nigerian striker, attempting to control a cross in the Braga penalty area, was adjudged to have handled the ball after a lengthy VAR review. The decision left Celtic players and supporters in disbelief as the visitors converted the resulting penalty to secure an unlikely victory.
Early Promise Fades for Bhoys
Celtic had started brightly, dominating possession and creating several early chances. Their pressure paid dividends when they took a deserved lead midway through the first half, sending the home crowd into raptures.
However, Braga grew into the contest and equalised against the run of play just before halftime, setting up a tense second period where both teams battled for control.
Group H Complications
This defeat represents a significant setback for Celtic's hopes of progressing from a competitive Group H. The Scottish champions now face an uphill battle to qualify for the knockout stages, with manager Brendan Rodgers left to rue what might have been.
The controversial conclusion leaves several unanswered questions:
- Was the handball decision justified given the proximity and natural position?
- How will this psychological blow affect Celtic's domestic and European campaigns?
- Can Rodgers' side recover from this devastating late setback?
For Iheanacho, it was a night of personal anguish, while Braga celebrated a remarkable escape that keeps their own qualification hopes very much alive.
