Substitute Kelechi Iheanacho kept his composure under pressure as Celtic capitalized on more indiscipline from 10-man Hibernian to move level on points with league leaders Hearts. The Nigerian striker struck with 18 minutes remaining to secure a tense 2-1 victory at Easter Road.
Hibernian's hopes were dealt a blow in the 20th minute when Jamie McGrath became their fourth player in three matches to receive a red card. The Republic of Ireland midfielder was initially booked for a reckless challenge on Alistair Johnston, but the video assistant referee recommended a pitch-side review, resulting in an upgraded dismissal.
Celtic seemed destined for a comfortable win when Daizen Maeda broke the deadlock in the 41st minute. Johnston played a one-two with Benjamin Nygren on the right flank and delivered a precise low cross for Maeda, who tapped in from close range. However, the hosts equalized in first-half stoppage time through captain Joe Newell. Nicky Cadden's cross was not cleared effectively by either Nygren or goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo, and Newell scooped the loose ball into the net from seven yards. The goal survived a lengthy VAR check despite appearing to come off his arm.
Celtic regained the lead in the 72nd minute when Iheanacho, who had been on the pitch for barely three minutes, chested down a header from Arne Engels following Kieran Tierney's corner and fired home from close range. The goal was his third in recent appearances, having also scored in wins over Dundee and St Mirren.
Martin O'Neill's side endured some nervous moments in the closing stages but held on for a fourth consecutive league victory. The result moved Celtic four points clear of third-placed Rangers and level with Hearts, who face Rangers at Tynecastle on Monday. Hearts lead on goal difference.
The match was played in a subdued atmosphere, with thousands of empty seats in the home end, reflecting some Hibs supporters' desire for their team to lose in order to damage bitter rivals Hearts' title hopes. Nevertheless, Hibs players showed commitment early on, with Warren O'Hora bravely blocking a shot from Nygren.
Celtic started purposefully, with Maeda blazing over after being set up by Callum McGregor. The visitors dominated possession after the red card, probing for openings. Their pressure eventually paid off through Maeda's strike, but Newell's controversial equalizer set up a tense second half before Iheanacho's decisive intervention.
