Iheanacho Nets Late Winner As Celtic Edge Hibernian To Maintain Title Pressure

Celtic secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Hibernian at Easter Road, with Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho emerging as the match-winner in a crucial Scottish Premiership encounter. According to reports from Ireporter Online, the win sees Celtic draw level on points with Heart of Midlothian, intensifying the race for the league title.

The game took a dramatic turn early on when Hibernian’s Jamie McGrath was shown a red card in the 21st minute following a reckless challenge on Alistair Johnston. Celtic capitalized on the numerical advantage and thought they had taken the lead before half-time through Daizen Maeda, whose finish from a low cross was initially ruled out for offside but later awarded after a VAR review.

Hibernian responded moments before the interval under controversial circumstances, as Joe Newell found the net following a goalkeeping error. Despite protests from Celtic players over a possible handball, VAR upheld the decision, ensuring both sides went into the break level.

Celtic struggled to assert dominance in the second half despite their advantage, but Iheanacho eventually made the difference in the 72nd minute. The Nigerian forward controlled a corner with his chest before calmly finishing from close range, marking his fourth goal in five appearances.

Hibernian pushed for a late equaliser and came close in the closing stages, with substitute Ante Suto narrowly missing the target. However, Celtic held firm to secure all three points.

The result leaves Celtic level with Hearts on points but behind on goal difference, while Hibernian remain in contention for European qualification in what is shaping up to be a tightly contested season.