Rodgers ‘baffled’ by Celtic disallowed goal
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers expressed profound bewilderment following the disallowance of Kelechi Iheanacho’s apparent equaliser during their 2-0 Europa League home defeat by Sporting Braga on Thursday. The incident occurred around the 51st minute, when Iheanacho’s goal was ruled out for handball despite replays indicating the ball struck his face, not his arm.
The Nigerian striker capitalized on a loose clearance from former Celtic defender Gustaf Lagerbielke and slotted the ball home, sparking wild celebrations among the home crowd. However, referee Tobias Stieler ruled the goal out for handball after consulting with video assistant referee Christian Dingert, who upheld the decision following an extended review lasting over two minutes.
Rodgers criticized the use of VAR in the incident, stating, “I can’t understand why the referee isn’t asked to go and have a look at it. Even if you look at it once, twice, and assuming the VAR officials watched it more than that, there’s absolutely no way from every angle that he touched it with his arm. It hit his face. It’s a mistake by the referee” he said. The manager underscored the pivotal nature of the moment, suggesting the decision effectively changed the game’s momentum.
The match had already seen Braga take the lead through Ricardo Horta’s long-range strike that goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel struggled to handle early in the first half. Though Celtic fought to regain footing and created several attacking opportunities—with Kieran Tierney and Sebastian Tounekti testing the Braga goalkeeper—their inability to convert precious chances proved costly. Gabri Martinez sealed Braga’s victory with a late goal.
Rodgers also acknowledged his team’s offensive struggles, noting that Celtic had been one of the highest-scoring clubs in recent years but were currently in a goal drought, which he takes responsibility for resolving. He adjusted the team’s formation to a back three at halftime, seeking to stabilize proceedings.
The defeat leaves Celtic in a precarious position in their Europa League group, with hopes of progressing to the knockout rounds now under threat. Rodgers’ call for clarity and transparency regarding the VAR decision reflects ongoing debates around technology’s role in football officiating.
This setback comes as Celtic continues to build under Rodgers’ leadership, aiming to balance attacking sharpness with defensive solidity while navigating the rigours of European competition. Iheanacho’s denied goal illustrates both the fine margins of modern football and the contentious nature of refereeing decisions despite technological aids.