Free extension for sports fans
Advertisement
Advertisement

Martin O’Neill rages at two ref decisions in Celtic defeat as VAR check bamboozles boss

O'Neill didn't think Bulgarian ref Georgi Kabakov was up to scratch as Hoops saw their lead against the Spaniards wiped out in three second half minutes…

Published: Thursday, 22 October 2026 at 9:53 PM
Martin O’Neill rages at two ref decisions in Celtic defeat as VAR check bamboozles boss
Key Things to Know
  • Martin O'Neill criticized the referee for missing two key fouls during Celtic's Europa League loss to Celta Vigo.
  • O'Neill highlighted unpunished challenges on Callum Osmand in the box and Camilo Duran before Celta's equalizer.
  • Celta Vigo defeated Celtic 2-1 following a brace from Javi Rodriguez after Mika Baur scored Celtic's opener.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill voiced frustration over two contentious refereeing decisions following his side's Europa League defeat to Celta Vigo. O'Neill criticized the referee for missing what he termed an obvious first-half foul on Callum Osmand, as well as an uncalled foul on Camilo Duran shortly before Celta equalized from a subsequent free-kick. O'Neill was booked for protesting the latter incident as the Spanish side overturned the deficit to claim victory.

Mika Baur gave Celtic the lead right after halftime, but a double from Javi Rodriguez secured a 2-1 turnaround for Claudio Giraldez's side. The result marks Celtic's third straight defeat in the Europa League group stage and their fourth consecutive European loss this season. Despite the poor run, O'Neill insisted that Celtic still retain a chance to qualify with five European group fixtures remaining.

Advertisement

Never Miss a Sports Update

Get the latest sports news and top stories from MySportsTab delivered straight to your inbox.

No spam. Just the latest sports news and updates.