(DDM) – Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho featured prominently on Saturday as Celtic were held to a frustrating goalless draw against Hibernian at Parkhead in the Scottish Premiership.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that Iheanacho, who was handed a starting role following his midweek Europa League goal, came close to breaking the deadlock on several occasions but was denied by both the woodwork and the referee’s VAR ruling.
The match was played amid an uneasy atmosphere at Celtic Park, where fans staged a silent protest for the first 12 minutes in opposition to the club’s board.
Despite the subdued start from the stands, Celtic began the game on the front foot, controlling possession and creating clear chances.
Iheanacho almost opened his league account for the Glasgow giants when he rattled the crossbar early in the first half.
His strike partner, Marcelo Saracchi, also saw his effort bounce off the woodwork, leaving the home side frustrated before the interval.
In the 65th minute, the Super Eagles forward thought he had finally given Celtic the lead when he slotted home from close range. However, after a lengthy Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review, the goal was ruled out for offside.
The decision was met with loud boos from the Parkhead faithful, who had only just ended their organized protest with chants against the board.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers experimented with a new attacking system, deploying Japan international Daizen Maeda on the right wing after his struggles in a central role during the midweek 1-1 draw against Red Star Belgrade.
Iheanacho led the line as Rodgers searched for a more potent partnership up front, but his tactical reshuffle failed to yield the much-needed breakthrough.
Hibernian, under head coach David Gray, fielded Grant Hanley and Jack Iredale in a three-man defense following a poor recent run of results.
Despite their struggles, Hibs remained defensively resilient and relied on the brilliance of goalkeeper Ralph Sallinger, who made several key saves to preserve their unbeaten start to the season.
The draw meant Celtic dropped crucial points in the title race, slipping two points behind early leaders Hearts after six rounds of matches.
Rodgers admitted afterward that his side must sharpen their finishing if they are to reclaim the Premiership crown.
For Iheanacho, the performance was a reminder of his potential impact in Scotland, even though luck and VAR denied him a debut league goal.
Many Celtic fans hope the Nigerian’s sharpness in front of goal will soon turn near-misses into match-winning moments.