AFCON 2025
Kelechi Iheanacho scored a dramatic VAR-assisted penalty deep into stoppage time as Celtic fought back to beat Motherwell F.C. 3-2 in a thrilling Scottish Premiership clash at Fir Park, keeping their title hopes firmly alive.
The Nigerian forward calmly converted from the spot in the ninth minute of added time after referee John Beaton awarded Celtic a penalty following a VAR review. Former Hearts midfielder Sam Nicholson was adjudged to have handled the ball while attempting to clear with his head.
Iheanacho’s late strike completed an incredible comeback for Celtic in one of the most dramatic twists of the Scottish title race this season.
Celtic had looked set to drop crucial points after Liam Gordon restored parity for Motherwell in the 85th minute. The goal appeared to hand title rivals Heart of Midlothian F.C. a major advantage before late drama unfolded.
The visitors had earlier battled back from a difficult start after Elliot Watt gave Motherwell the lead in the 17th minute with a powerful long-range volley. Celtic gradually found their rhythm, with Daizen Maeda levelling before halftime after capitalising on a loose ball inside the area.
Benjamin Nygren then produced a stunning effort from distance in the 58th minute to put Celtic ahead, but Motherwell refused to back down and continued to threaten throughout the second half.
Goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo made several important saves to keep Celtic in the contest before Gordon’s late equaliser stunned the away supporters.
With the match heading towards a draw, VAR intervened in the closing seconds after Nicholson’s handball incident inside the penalty area. Iheanacho stepped up under immense pressure and slotted home the decisive penalty to spark wild celebrations among the travelling Celtic fans, some of whom invaded the pitch after the final whistle.
The result means Celtic now have their destiny in their own hands heading into the final day of the season. Victory against Hearts on Saturday will secure the Premiership title for the Glasgow giants.
