Were Celtic VAR victims or just outplayed in Braga defeat?

Introduction To Celtic's Controversial Braga Defeat

Celtic’s recent Europa League clash with Sporting Braga ended in a 2-0 loss marred by a highly contentious VAR decision. The disallowing of Kelechi Iheanacho’s goal sparked outrage among players, fans, and pundits alike. But was Celtic truly unfortunate victims of technology, or were they simply outperformed by a strong Braga side? This article breaks down the key moments, tactical nuances, and broader implications of the match.

Key controversy: Iheanacho’s disallowed goal

Early in the second half, Kelechi Iheanacho appeared to fire a left-footed strike into the net that would have levelled the game. However, after a lengthy VAR review, referee Tobias Stieler nullified the goal for a handball offence. Replays suggested the ball struck Iheanacho’s face, not his hand, leaving Celtic players and coaching staff perplexed.

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers described it as a "huge moment" that changed the game’s complexion, while former Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart called the decision "ridiculous" during commentary. Teammate Sebastian Tounekti labelled the verdict "crazy," emphasising the confusion around the call. Such controversy raises questions about the consistency and transparency of VAR decisions in high-stakes European fixtures.

How VAR impacted the match flow

The prolonged video assistant referee check disrupted Celtic’s momentum just as they were mounting pressure. Moments before the goal, the team showed signs of breaking down Braga’s defence, especially after Rodgers switched to a back-three formation. The delay and ultimate overturning of the goal appeared to deflate Celtic’s attacking intent, while Braga regained composure and confidence.

Defensive errors that cost Celtic dearly

Despite the VAR debate dominating headlines, Celtic’s defensive lapses were equally pivotal. On 20 minutes, Braga’s Ricardo Horta unleashed a curling 33-yard shot that Kasper Schmeichel mishandled, gifting Braga the opener. The experienced Danish goalkeeper’s error was uncharacteristic and compounded Celtic’s challenges.

Later in the second half, a defensive clearance went awry when Dane Murray’s attempt ricocheted off Gabri Martinez and into Celtic’s net. These mistakes underline a lack of defensive cohesion and concentration, areas Rodgers must urgently address if Celtic are to compete effectively in Europe.

Tactical challenges and player positioning issues

Rodgers’ decision to deploy Daizen Maeda, last season’s top scorer, at right wing-back highlighted the team’s attacking struggles. Operating out of position, Maeda’s influence diminished, limiting Celtic’s offensive threat. Midfield combinations lacked energy and cutting edge, failing to create consistent opportunities against Braga’s well-organised side.

This tactical inflexibility contrasts with previous seasons where Celtic’s midfield dynamism and fluidity posed significant challenges to opponents. It also reflects the wider concerns among supporters regarding the club’s transfer activity and squad depth, which have arguably contributed to the stuttering start to the campaign.

Comparing this season’s scoring woes

Celtic have now failed to score in five of their 12 games this season, matching last season’s total blank games but reached much earlier in the campaign. This worrying trend is reminiscent of struggles not seen since the 1991-92 season. The lack of goals places pressure on the defence and undermines overall team confidence.

Expert opinions on Celtic’s performance

Former Scotland forward James McFadden described the performance as "poor" and "lacking quality," an unusual critique for a club with Celtic’s pedigree. He acknowledged that while the half-time shape change provided some improvement, Braga fully deserved the win.

Ex-Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner emphasised the absence of real attacking intent, noting the team’s possession was often sterile. Defensive errors, especially Schmeichel’s mistake, were deemed "big, big mistakes" that Celtic cannot afford in European competition.

Was Celtic merely unlucky or simply outplayed?

While the disallowed goal remains the focal talking point, the evidence suggests Celtic’s performance issues were more significant than a single VAR call. Braga, currently seventh in Portugal’s top-flight, demonstrated tactical discipline and capitalised on Celtic’s errors. The VAR controversy, though frustrating, did not mask the home side’s shortcomings.

In the broader context, Celtic’s struggles since February extend beyond this match, including a Champions League exit after a close contest with Bayern Munich. The team’s inability to win 12 of their last 27 matches in all competitions highlights systemic challenges.

Looking ahead: what Celtic must do next

To reverse their fortunes, Celtic must address both defensive vulnerabilities and attacking inefficiencies. Rodgers’ experimentation with formations needs to find a stable solution that maximises player strengths, such as returning Maeda to a forward role. Reinforcing the squad during transfer windows could inject fresh energy and quality, responding to fan concerns about ambition.

Moreover, Celtic can draw lessons from other clubs navigating goalkeeper dilemmas and summer transfer strategies, similar to those detailed in our Manchester Uniteds goalkeeper dilemma and summer transfer insights article. Strengthening key positions will be crucial for domestic and European success.

Conclusion

Celtic’s defeat to Braga was a complex combination of unfortunate VAR intervention and genuine performance shortcomings. While the disallowed goal sparked understandable frustration, defensive errors and lack of attacking cohesion were ultimately decisive. The match serves as a wake-up call for Celtic to refine tactics, bolster the squad, and regain the consistency expected at this level.

For further insights on sports performance and transfer updates, explore our detailed coverage at SportsScoop.