Kelechi Iheanacho stepped up again as the Nigerian forward scored the winner in Celtic’s tense 2-1 victory over 10-man Hibernian to keep the Scottish champions firmly in the Premiership title race.
Iheanacho came off the bench to deliver the decisive moment in the 72nd minute, continuing his growing influence in Celtic’s recent run of victories after also playing key roles against Dundee and St Mirren.
The win moved Martin O’Neill’s side level on points with league leaders Heart of Midlothian, with Hearts only ahead on goal difference ahead of Monday’s clash against Rangers FC at Tynecastle.
Hibs’ afternoon became more difficult in the 20th minute when Jamie McGrath was sent off after a reckless challenge on Alistair Johnston.
The midfielder was initially shown a yellow card before VAR advised referee intervention, leading to the decision being upgraded to a red card.
It marked the fourth Hibs dismissal in just three matches and the third consecutive game in which they had been reduced to 10 men before half-time.
READMORE: From injury and racism to league kings: how Moffi and Sanusi conquered Portugal with Porto title
Celtic eventually made their numerical advantage count in the 41st minute when Daizen Maeda finished from close range after excellent work down the right by Johnston.
However, the hosts responded in first-half stoppage time through captain Joe Newell after confusion inside the Celtic penalty area. The goal survived a lengthy VAR review despite suggestions the ball may have touched Newell’s arm before he scored.
With tensions rising and the match finely balanced, Iheanacho once again proved decisive.
Barely three minutes after entering the match, the Super Eagles striker controlled the ball brilliantly inside the box before firing home from close range after Arne Engels had headed on Kieran Tierney’s corner.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
The goal secured Celtic’s fourth consecutive league victory and further highlighted Iheanacho’s growing importance during the closing weeks of the campaign.
Although Celtic were forced to survive nervy moments late on, they held firm to secure another crucial three points in the race for the Scottish Premiership title.
