Kelechi Iheanacho struck late to give Celtic a hard-fought 2–1 victory over 10-man Hibernian on Sunday, keeping the pressure firmly on title rivals Hearts and Rangers.
The defending champions move level on points with Hearts—who lead on goal difference—and sit four points ahead of Rangers, with all three sides still to face one another in a tense title run-in.
Hearts host Rangers on Monday in a crucial encounter as they seek to break the long-standing dominance of Glasgow’s two giants. Celtic and Rangers then meet next weekend, before Hearts travel to Celtic Park on the final day of the season.
“We’ve won today, so there’s some relief for now,” said Celtic manager Martin O’Neill. “But even winning our remaining games doesn’t guarantee the title. The margin for error is very small.”
Hibernian made life difficult for themselves early on, reduced to 10 men in the 21st minute when Jamie McGrath was sent off for a reckless challenge on Alistair Johnston following a VAR review.
Johnston, who has struggled with injuries this season, made an immediate impact. The Canadian combined neatly with Yang Hyun-jun before delivering a cross that Daizen Maeda turned in from close range. The goal was initially ruled out for offside but later awarded after VAR intervention.
Hibs responded in first-half stoppage time through captain Joe Newell, whose equaliser survived a lengthy VAR check despite suspicions of handball in the build-up.
Celtic dominated possession after the break but found it difficult to break down the depleted hosts until Iheanacho produced a moment of quality. The Nigerian forward expertly controlled Kieran Tierney’s delivery before finishing calmly into the bottom corner 18 minutes from time.
The win ensures Celtic remain firmly in the title race as the season heads toward a dramatic conclusion.
AFP
