Iheanacho wins point for Celtic in Europa League opener

Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho continues to shine for Celtic, scoring the opener in their 1-1 draw against Red Star.

The Nigerian star was introduced at half-time, and he injected life into the game, scoring in the 55th minute. However, his goal was not enough to clinch victory as Marco Arnautovic rescued a point for the visitors.

Red Star, buoyed by the home crowd at Rajkot Mitic stadium, dominated the early exchanges. Celtic, meanwhile, looked to contain, but struggled to create clear cut-chances.

Matheus in Red Star’s goal was rarely troubled, and several crosses and corners from Celtic were defended well, as the the visitors lacked the final ball or movement to stretch the hosts.

That changed just after half-time. Rodgers made a switch: Kelechi Iheanacho came on and, almost immediately, he injected bite and composure. 

Benjamin Nygren’s pass found him inside the box; he showed experience and composer, finishing with aplomb. Suddenly, Celtic appeared more confident, pressing higher and getting shots off. 

But Red Star’s response was swift. Around the 65-minute mark, a routine corner turned dangerous. The ball dropped into the box, and after a scramble, Marko Arnautovic poked home with determination, sending the home crowd going wild. 

Following the goal, momentum swung back and forth. Celtic nearly regained the lead through a shot blocked well or a save from Matheus; Red Star had chances too, but Schmeichel and the Celtic backline stood firm when required and both sides shared the spoils. 

This is the second time Iheanacho has come off the bench to score a crucial goal for Celtic. He scored the winner against Kilmarnock on his debut, and registered an assist in the cup clash against Patrick Thistle, His tally for the season is two goals and an assist.