Kelechi Iheanacho looked to have equalised for Celtic against Braga until a VAR intervention.
The Celtic striker lashed into the bottom corner in the second half after riding a tackle to surge clear through on goal.
With a one-on-one with the goalkeeper, Iheanacho made no mistake as he arrowed into the bottom corner, as he appeared to make it 1-1 at Celtic Park.
Kelechi Iheanacho looked to have gotten Celtic back into the game... but VAR rules out his strike for handball ❌ 📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/kTLpdakAqE
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) October 2, 2025
However, to the surprise of those inside the stadium as well as those watching on TV, a lengthy VAR check was launched after the goal.
Referee Tobias Stieler signalled that a check was underway, as with all goals in the Europa League.
But there was shock as the delay continued for a few moments before Iheanacho's goal was ruled out for a handball.
Christian Dingert on VAR deemed Iheanacho to have handled the ball as he controlled it before finding the bottom corner.
The decision was a factual overturn according to the rules, meaning the referee did not have to go to the pitchside monitor with clear and obvious evidence of the handball needed.
Read more:
- Joe Hart verdict as Kasper Schmeichel suffers 'difficult' blunder for Celtic
- 'I would be screaming' - Celtic hero reacts to surprise team news vs Braga
Pundit Joe Hart was baffled by the decision as he said on commentary: "This is ridiculous. I presume there must be a bad wifi connection because that must be the only reason we are not getting on with this game.
"What? Are you seeing the same replays as me?
"The ball comes up, no touch, there hits his cheek. I'm flabbergasted.
"I could argue that it might glance the top of his shoulder, but that is not a crime."
Stunned Chris Sutton added: "That’s scandalous…"
