Kelechi Iheanacho once again proved his value off the bench, scoring a decisive late winner as Celtic secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over 10-man Hibernian at Easter Road on Sunday.
The result sees Celtic move level on points with league leaders Heart of Midlothian in the Scottish Premiership, intensifying an already gripping title race.
Super Sub Delivers Again
Introduced in the 69th minute, Iheanacho needed just 151 seconds to make his mark. The Nigerian forward reacted quickest to a corner, controlling the ball on his chest before firing home from close range to seal all three points.
His latest contribution reinforces a growing reputation as a “super sub,” having also delivered crucial goals in recent wins, underlining his importance during the run-in.
Eventful First Half
Celtic had earlier taken a deserved lead through Daizen Maeda, who tapped in from close range in the 41st minute following an incisive move involving Alistair Johnston and Benjamin Nygren.
Hibernian’s task became significantly harder when Jamie McGrath was sent off in the 21st minute for a reckless challenge, with VAR upgrading his initial yellow card to a red.
Despite the setback, the hosts responded with resilience. Captain Joe Newell equalized in first-half stoppage time, scooping home after a dangerous cross from Chris Cadden caused chaos in the Celtic box. The goal stood following a lengthy VAR check.
Iheanacho Seals It Late
With Hibernian defending deep, Celtic manager Martin O’Neill turned to his bench, a decision that paid immediate dividends. Iheanacho replaced Yang Hyun-jun and was perfectly positioned when Kieran Tierney’s corner was flicked on by Arne Engels.
Displaying composure under pressure, Iheanacho brought the ball down expertly before slotting past goalkeeper Jordan Smith.
Speaking after the match, the Nigerian forward emphasized patience against a stubborn opponent:
“We needed to stay patient, especially against 10 men. They sit back and make it difficult, but we moved the ball well and got our reward.”
Title Race Heats Up
The victory extends Celtic’s unbeaten run and takes them to 73 points, level with Hearts and four clear of Rangers, who have a game in hand.
With an Old Firm derby looming, the title race is entering a decisive final stretch, and Iheanacho’s timely contributions could prove decisive in Celtic’s push for silverware.
Hibernian, meanwhile, will rue their indiscipline despite a spirited performance, as another red card ultimately proved costly.
For Celtic, however, the story was once again Iheanacho clinical, composed, and decisive when it mattered most.
