Iheanacho Strikes Late As Celtic Beat Hibernian To Keep Title Race Tight

Nigerian forward, Kelechi Iheanacho, delivered the decisive moment as Celtic fought back to beat Hibernian 2-1 at Easter Road and move level on points with leaders Heart of Midlothian in the Scottish Premiership.

Iheanacho scored in the 72nd minute, guiding home from close range to seal a hard-earned win that keeps the title fight alive ahead of Rangers’ clash with Hearts on Monday.

Celtic were handed an early advantage when Jamie McGrath was sent off after 21 minutes for a lunging tackle on Alistair Johnston. The visitors took control soon after, with Daizen Maeda finishing from Johnston’s low cross in the 41st minute. The goal was initially ruled out for offside before VAR overturned the decision.

Hibs hit back controversially just before the break. Joe Newell bundled home after a weak punch from goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo, with Celtic players furious as replays suggested the ball may have brushed the midfielder’s arm. VAR allowed the goal to stand, sending the sides level at half-time.

Despite their numerical advantage, Celtic struggled to create clear openings after the restart. Iheanacho finally broke the resistance, chesting down a corner before calmly finishing from five yards for his fourth goal in five matches.

Hibs nearly snatched a late equaliser, but substitute Ante Suto fired into the side netting in the closing minutes.

The victory lifts Celtic level on points with Hearts, trailing only on goal difference, while Hibernian remain locked in a tight battle for European qualification.