In the aftermath of Celtic’s disheartening 6-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League, the consensus among television and radio analysts is clear: Daizen Maeda’s sending off was an erroneous decision. It was a moment that undeniably tipped the scale.

The incident in question involved Maeda and Mario Hermoso vying for a contested ball, with the Celtic player’s foot inadvertently connecting with Hermoso’s leg. The lack of intent and the nature of the play hardly made it a candidate for a sending-off, a sentiment echoed across punditry. The scrutiny under VAR only intensified the debate, with many voices in the sport suggesting the officials had made a significant misjudgment.

Martin O’Neill, speaking live on TNT Sports, did not mince words during the half-time analysis: “I think it is exceptionally harsh. It’s incredibly harsh.” His view was mirrored by Owen Hargreaves, who questioned the reliance on still images for refereeing decisions and argued for a more lenient interpretation given Maeda’s effort in the game: “He’s worked incredibly hard, he’s three vs one on his own, he’s chasing the ball.”

BBC Radio Scotland aired Aiden McGeady’s frustrations, encapsulating the sentiment of Celtic’s supporters and neutrals alike: “If that’s what you’re getting sent off today, what’s the point in even making a challenge? I disagree with it. I don’t think it was a red card.”

Facing the aftermath of this controversial decision, Celtic now confronts the grim prospect of European elimination unless they can secure victories in their final games against Lazio and Feyenoord. With Maeda sidelined for the pivotal match in Rome, the challenge has got even greater.

For Celtic fans, the current campaign is shaping up to be an all-too-familiar narrative marred by defensive lapses, squandered opportunities, and costly disciplinary setbacks. The quest for a redeeming performance in Europe continues, with hope and resolve being put to the ultimate test.