Borja Iglesias rescues 2-2 draw for Celta Vigo at Espanyol despite VAR call - AP News

AP News
February 14, 2026
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Borja Iglesias scored a crucial equalizer in stoppage time to secure a 2-2 draw for Celta Vigo against Espanyol, despite a controversial VAR decision that initially disallowed a potential winning goal. The match, played at the RCDE Stadium, was a tense encounter marked by defensive solidity and key moments of attacking brilliance from both sides. Iglesias' ability to rise to the occasion highlighted his importance to Celta Vigo, who were without their star striker Iago Aspas for this clash. Espanyol dominated possession but struggled to convert chances into goals, ultimately falling short of a victory that would have lifted them further up the table. The game started with both teams probing each other's defenses. Espanyol took an early lead through a well-taken goal by Rafa Mir, who capitalized on a defensive error. Celta Vigo responded quickly, with Ignacio Deza heading in from close range to level the score. The second half saw Espanyol regain control, but they were denied what appeared to be a clear penalty when Celta goalkeeper Sergio Alvarez blocked a shot that hit his hand inside the area.VAR reviewed the incident and ruled it out, sparing Celta Vigo from falling behind. As the clock ticked down, tension mounted as both teams pushed for a winner. Espanyol's efforts were rewarded with a second goal from center back Vladan Coro, who capitalized on a defensive mix-up to head home. However, Iglesias proved decisive in the补时阶段 (stoppage time), bundling in after a scramble in the box to secure
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Originally published on AP News on 2/14/2026