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Celtic's Late Penalty Stirs VAR Fury in Title Fight

Sky Sports Champions League •
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Celtic edged Motherwell 3-2 at Fir Park when Kelechi Iheanacho slotted a 98:27 penalty, a decision that has dominated the footballing conversation. The spot‑kick arose from a collision between Sam Nicholson and Auston Trusty, with Nicholson’s arm in an unnatural position. VAR specialist Andrew Dallas consulted a single replay for 22 seconds before confirming a handball.

Hearts, sitting three points clear before the incident, saw their lead shrink to a single point and goal‑difference advantage drop from six to five. Manager Martin O'Neill described the call as "pretty clear cut," while Hearts boss Derek McInnes branded it "disgusting." The controversy adds another layer to a season already peppered with contentious officiating, including a denied Hearts penalty earlier in the week.

With one game remaining, the title hinges on Celtic travelling to Parkhead. A victory would hand them the crown; a draw or loss leaves the trophy in Hearts’ hands. Scottish FA has appointed Don Robertson to referee, supported by VAR official Kevin Clancy. The outcome will settle whether this episode ranks among the most divisive VAR moments in Scottish football.