Celtic F.C. produced an impressive comeback to defeat Motherwell F.C. 3–1 after initially falling behind.
The turning point came when Motherwell were reduced to ten men following a foul by Emmanuel Longelo on Daizen Maeda, with Celtic awarded a penalty that helped them move 2–1 in front.
However, the match also sparked debate online, with some claiming Maeda himself could have been sent off after appearing to catch a Motherwell player with an elbow during an earlier altercation.
Former FIFA referee Mark Clattenburg was asked to assess the incident and dismissed suggestions that the Celtic forward should have been shown a red card. While he admitted Maeda was somewhat fortunate not to receive a booking, Clattenburg insisted the challenge did not meet the threshold for a sending-off.
According to Clattenburg, VAR would only intervene if the incident involved clear malice, excessive force, or posed a danger to the opponent—criteria he believes were not present in this case. He suggested the Motherwell player had initially barged into Maeda from behind and ended up injuring himself while tangling with the Celtic attacker.
Clattenburg argued that claims of deliberate wrongdoing by Maeda were exaggerated and that the situation did not warrant a red card review.
Despite the controversy, attention has also turned to Maeda’s form in front of goal. The hardworking forward continues to contribute with his pressing and movement, but his finishing has been less consistent this season.
Maeda has scored eight goals in 44 appearances so far, with seven of those coming in the Scottish Premiership.
With rivals Heart of Midlothian F.C. and Rangers F.C. still keeping the pressure on in the title race, Celtic will hope Maeda can rediscover his scoring touch as the campaign reaches its decisive stages. Extra goals from the Japanese forward could prove crucial in strengthening the club’s push to retain the Premiership crown. ⚽
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