Celtic were left aggrieved after a hugely controversial handball decision denied Kelechi Iheanacho an equaliser before Braga sealed a 2-0 Europa League victory at Parkhead. The Scottish champions fell behind in the 20th minute when Kasper Schmeichel misjudged Ricardo Horta's long-range strike, allowing the ball to loop into the net.
Celtic thought they had levelled in the 51st minute when Iheanacho capitalised on a loose pass and scrambled clearance from former Celtic defender Gustaf Lagerbielke before firing home. However, German referee Tobias Stieler disallowed the goal for handball, and video assistant Christian Dingert upheld the decision after a lengthy review despite television replays suggesting the ball struck Iheanacho's face.
The visitors doubled their lead five minutes from time when Gabri Martínez netted from close range after Schmeichel and Liam Scales had blocked initial efforts. Celtic had earlier pushed for an equaliser, with Kieran Tierney and Sebastian Tounekti denied by good goalkeeping, but Brendan Rodgers's side could not find a way through.
The result leaves Celtic with just one point from their opening two Europa League group matches, while Braga moved to four points. The defeat added to a frustrating night for Schmeichel, who had a rare off night, conceding possession several times before being beaten from long range.
