Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers was left fuming after a controversial VAR decision denied his side a crucial equaliser in their Europa League clash against Braga at Parkhead. Kelechi Iheanacho's second-half strike was ruled out for handball, despite replays suggesting the ball came off his head. The decision proved costly as Braga went on to secure a 2-0 victory, leaving Celtic's European hopes hanging in the balance.
Braga took the lead in the first half through Ricardo Horta, whose long-range effort from 35 yards beat goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel. Celtic struggled to find their rhythm initially but improved after Rodgers switched to a back three. Iheanacho thought he had levelled when he controlled the ball and fired into the corner, only for VAR to intervene. The decision stunned the home crowd and players alike.
Despite dominating the second half, Celtic failed to find a way past Braga goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek, who made a superb save to deny Sebastian Tounekti. The visitors sealed the win late on when Gabri Martinez scored from close range after a chaotic defensive scramble. The result leaves Celtic playing catch-up in the group stage.
Off the pitch, Celtic fans postponed their planned protest against the board after agreeing to talks with club officials. However, a banner displayed by the ultras criticising UEFA over the Israel-Gaza conflict is likely to result in another fine for the club. Rodgers will now focus on improving his side's attacking edge as they face a tough task to progress in the competition.
