Celtic were left frustrated after Daizen Maeda’s appeal for a penalty against BCS Young Boys was turned down, but former referee Keith Hackett insists the decision was correct.
The ex-PGMOL chief and former FIFA official, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the Japanese forward was “looking for the push” during the Champions League clash against the Swiss side.
Celtic had approached the game with high stakes, seeking a victory to bolster their chances of progressing from the group stages. Meanwhile, their opponents, Young Boys, were already out of contention in the competition.
The match featured its fair share of drama, with Celtic’s hopes of being awarded a penalty dashed as VAR upheld referee Rohit Saggi’s on-field call. Hackett’s view aligned with the officials, affirming that the decision to deny the spot-kick was justified.
The game unfolded in chaotic fashion, with the Hoops managing to score a goal that stood late in the match. However, the evening took a sour turn when Maeda was shown a red card for a retaliatory kick in the dying moments.
Controversial Penalty Appeal Dismissed
The key moment arrived in the 22nd minute, with the game still goalless. Maeda broke through the Young Boys’ defense, only to be challenged by Cheikh Niasse, who clumsily tracked back to cover his center-backs.
The Senegalese midfielder made contact as Maeda slowed down, seemingly inviting the challenge before going to ground.
When questioned by Football Insider, Hackett was clear in his assessment:
“Celtic forward is looking for the push and slightly slows his movement forward, inviting the push then goes to ground.
“Not a penalty kick.”
Celtic’s frustration grew during a chaotic first half, in which referee Saggi disallowed three goals from the Scottish side. To add to the drama, Arne Engels missed a penalty, which further compounded the sense of disbelief among the Hoops faithful.
Despite their valiant attacking efforts, Celtic’s struggles in the first half were compounded by off-field concerns.
Fans learned the club might find it difficult to meet Aston Villa’s valuation of Louie Barry, a potential transfer target.
At the same time, speculation continued to swirl around the future of Luis Palma, with multiple EFL clubs reportedly keen on the winger.
Celtic’s performance, while spirited, underlined the challenges facing the team both on and off the pitch as they aim to make an impact in Europe and secure key additions to their squad.