Celtic kept their Scottish Premiership title hopes alive with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Dundee, sealed by a late goal from substitute Kelechi Iheanacho.
The win moves Celtic to within three points of leaders Hearts and keeps the title race wide open heading into the final stretch of the season.
Strong start but missed chances cost Celtic control
Celtic made a bright start at Dens Park and took the lead early when Hyun-Jun Yang got a decisive touch on a close-range effort. The visitors looked in control and had opportunities to extend their advantage.
However, Tomas Cvancara missed two clear chances before half-time, leaving the door open for Dundee to stay in the game. Those missed opportunities would prove costly.
VAR decision brings Dundee back into the match
After the break, Dundee found their way back through a penalty awarded following a VAR review. Colby Donovan was penalised for handball, and Simon Murray converted calmly from the spot to level the score.
The equaliser shifted momentum and forced Celtic to regroup as the hosts grew in confidence.
Iheanacho makes decisive impact off the bench
With time running out, Celtic turned to Iheanacho, and the substitution proved decisive. The Nigerian forward met Marcelo Saracchi’s cross and fired home to restore the lead, sparking celebrations among the away supporters.
His goal ensured all three points for Celtic in a match they had at times threatened to let slip.
Late red card compounds Dundee frustration
Dundee’s hopes of a comeback were further dented late on when Ryan Astley was sent off for a challenge on Yang, leaving the hosts with ten men in the closing moments.
Celtic remain firmly in the title race
The victory ends a difficult run for Celtic at Dundee and keeps them firmly in contention. With just a handful of matches remaining and only three points separating the top teams, the title race remains finely balanced.
Celtic interim boss Martin O’Neill praised his side’s resilience, admitting they should have put the game beyond doubt earlier but highlighting their determination to respond after conceding.
Race for the title still too close to call
With Hearts, Rangers and Celtic all in contention, predictions remain uncertain. Results across the league continue to shift expectations week by week.
For Celtic, the mission is clear: keep winning and stay within reach. Thanks to Iheanacho’s late strike, that goal remains very much alive.
