Celtic fans fume at controversial refereeing decision as Maeda footage emerges

Celtic fans were left heartbroken on Tuesday night (18 February) as they were knocked out of the Champions League in the cruellest fashion by Bayern Munich.

The Hoops drew 1-1 against the Bundesliga giants at the Allianz Arena, but Alphonso Davies’ 94th-minute equaliser led to heartbreak for the Scottish Premiership side.

Brendan Rodgers’ team were drawing 2-2 on aggregate heading into the dying embers of the regular playing time, but the late goal ensured that Munich would go through.

Nicolas-Gerrit Kuhn had initially given Celtic the lead in the 63rd minute, but the Scottish giants were ultimately unable to hang on.

It brought an end to Celtic’s time in the Champions League, with Rodgers’ men crashing out of the competition after a hard-fought effort.

Celtic’s attention will now return to defending the Scottish Premiership when they face Hibernian on Saturday (22 February).

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers looks dejected
Photo Credit: Imago

Daizen Maeda appeared to be fouled in the build-up to Bayern goal

There was controversy in the build-up to Davies’ goal though, as Celtic had originally been on the attack when Daizen Maeda appeared to be fouled as play was turned over Munich.

Dayot Upamecano’s arm appeared to make contact with Maeda’s face as the 27-year-old pushed towards the Munich box.

Match StatsMaeda
Minutes played90
Goals0
Total shots2
Accurate passes6/12 (50%)
Touches24

Referee Benoit Bastien opted to wave play on as he didn’t deem the situation to be a foul as Munich went to the other end of the pitch and scored the goal that kept their European dreams alive.

Daizen Maeda celebrating for Celtic
Credit: Getty Images

Celtic fans blast the referee as footage analysed

Celtic fans were left baffled by Maeda not being awarded a foul after being hit with a stray arm, as supporters claimed the situation was “baffling.”

Others questioned UEFA by stating that “the tournament is set up for teams like Bayern Munich to go far” due to the size of the club.

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