Celtic Suffers Controversial 2-0 Europa League Loss After VAR Disallows Iheanacho Goal

Celtic suffered a 2-0 defeat to Braga in the Europa League, marred by a controversial VAR decision that disallowed a goal by Kelechi Iheanacho. The goal, which replays suggest was scored with Iheanacho's head, was ruled out for handball by referee Tobias Stieler and VAR official Christian Dingert, despite multiple angles showing no clear handball. Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers and former players have expressed bafflement and frustration over the decision, criticizing the lack of a pitchside review and clarity from UEFA on the ruling. Iheanacho himself insisted the ball hit his face, not his arm, calling the decision "awful" and a game-changing moment. The disallowed goal seemingly shifted momentum, with Braga taking the lead through a long-range strike by Ricardo Horta and sealing victory with a late goal. The incident has sparked calls for explanation and highlighted ongoing concerns about VAR's implementation and transparency in football.