Worst VAR decision – Ex-Barcelona striker stunned by refereeing decision in Iheanacho’s late winner

Kelechi Iheanacho of Celtic celebrates at full time. Copyright: ImagoxJamiexJohnstonx

Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho single-handedly fueled Celtic to a showdown in the race for the Scottish Premiership title with a late goal last night, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 29-year-old came off the bench for Martin O’Neill’s side at Fir Park, but it was his 99th-minute strike that sealed all three points against Motherwell. However, the build-up to that goal has stirred up mixed opinions across board.

Former Barcelona and England striker Gary Lineker was stunned by referee John Beaton’s decision to point to the penalty spot after Sam Nicholson handled the ball in his own box.

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Soccer Kelechi Iheanacho’s goal: Gary Lineker berates John Beaton’s decision

The Super Eagles striker came off the bench in the 70th minute, but his moment came in the 95th minute. A Celtic cross saw Sam Nicholson and Auston Trusty involved in an aerial duel, but the Motherwell defender handled the ball, although many would opine it wasn’t intentional.

With the scoreline at 2-2, Celtic would’ve been disadvantaged heading into the final matchday against Hearts, three points and five goals behind the league leaders.

However, Beaton’s decision gave them a lifeline, and Kelechi Iheanacho sent goalkeeper Calum Ward the wrong way, and the fans spread onto the pitch to celebrate the late goal.

Gary Lineker was bemused by the referee’s decision to point to the spot, especially after he’d already consulted with the Video Assistant referees.

The England legend took to his X space to air his displeasure.

Former Chelsea and Celtic striker Chris Sutton replied to Lineker’s post, saying: “That’s what VAR is there for.”

Iheanacho’s goal means Celtic have their fate in their hands and must secure victory against Hearts on Saturday to win the SPFL.

Adefolahan Guerreiro

Adefolahan is a multilingual CAF-Accredited sports journalist and football writer whose work spans outlets like Soccernet Nigeria, Pure Football UK, and Royalsportz.

With a sharp eye for detail and a background in college sports, he tells the African football story with depth, flair, and global perspective.

Fluent in English, Spanish, and German, he brings a cross-cultural voice to his coverage, blending insight with accessibility for readers around the world.
His portfolio includes interviews with top Nigerian stars like Finidi George, Junior Lokosa, Sikiru Alimi, Sodiq Ismaila, and Abraham Onahi Ogbu.

A devoted Borussia Dortmund fan, Adefolahan thrives on the emotion and rhythm of the beautiful game. Away from work, he’s a sci-fi enthusiast and series lover who enjoys exploring how sport, storytelling, and culture collide.