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SPFL: Iheanacho scores winner as Celtic edge 10-man Hibernian 2-1

From The Punch · (5m ago) English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Kelechi Iheanacho scored the winning goal as Celtic defeated 10-man Hibernian 2-1.
  • The victory moves Celtic level on points with Hearts and four clear of Rangers in the title race.
  • Hibernian played with 10 men for most of the match after Jamie McGrath was sent off.

Celtic has intensified the pressure on their title rivals Hearts and Rangers with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over 10-man Hibernian. Kelechi Iheanacho's decisive strike secured the crucial three points, propelling the defending champions to the top of the league table on goal difference, ahead of Hearts and with a four-point cushion over Rangers.

What do I want for tomorrow? I genuinely don’t know. We’ve won today so there is a bit of relief for 24 hours.

— Martin O’NeillCeltic boss reflecting on the pressure and relief after the crucial win.

The match was far from straightforward, with Hibernian making things difficult despite an early red card for Jamie McGrath. The controversial decision, confirmed by VAR, saw McGrath dismissed for a reckless challenge. However, Hibernian managed to equalize before halftime through Joe Newell, despite claims of a handball.

Even if we win the three games left at this minute, it doesn’t guarantee winning the league. The margin of error is very small and it seems like I’ve been saying that for months. It is what it is.

— Martin O’NeillCeltic boss emphasizing the difficulty and uncertainty of the title race.

Celtic's boss, Martin O'Neill, acknowledged the tight nature of the title race, emphasizing the small margin for error. "Even if we win the three games left at this minute, it doesn’t guarantee winning the league," he stated, reflecting the intense competition. The win sets up a thrilling climax to the season, with crucial upcoming clashes against Hearts and Rangers that will likely decide the championship.

The offside flag delayed the visitors’ celebrations until another VAR overturn showed the Japan forward was onside.

Describes a moment of controversy and technological intervention in the match.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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