Why FIFA Banned Goal Celebrations Involving Jersey Removal

September 26, 2025 | 06:11 pm

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The goal celebration of Hugo Ekitike resulted in a second yellow card in the match between Liverpool and Southampton in the third round of the English League Cup or Carabao Cup at Anfield Stadium in the early hours of Wednesday, September 24, 2025. Ekitike was sent off the field for celebrating by removing his jersey and lifting it towards the supporters.

Liverpool coach Arne Slot was furious with his players' behavior. The Dutch coach referred to Ekitke's actions as unnecessary and foolish. As a result of his celebration, Ekitike will be absent from the match against Crystal Palace on September 27. "It was needless and stupid. The first one was already needless and to a certain extent stupid because you have to control your emotions," he said as quoted by ESPN.

Ban on Removing Shirts During Celebration

FIFA's regulations on celebrations are governed by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) in the 2024/2025 edition of the Laws of the Game. This rule governs how players celebrate goals, including removing their jerseys. In short, taking off a shirt during a celebration is considered an "excessive celebration" or unsportsmanlike behavior. It falls under the category of a minor offense.

Players who engage in excessive celebrations will receive a yellow card. This rule is implemented to maintain decorum, prevent game delays, and avoid excessive commercial or provocative actions. These regulations are stipulated in Law 12, section "Fouls and Misconduct."

FIFA has enforced stricter rules on goal celebrations since July 1, 2004. FIFA states, "Players can celebrate when a goal is scored, but the celebration must not be excessive; choreographed celebrations are not encouraged and must not cause excessive time-wasting."

FIFA also stipulates that leaving the field to celebrate a goal is not considered a punishable violation. However, players must return to the field as soon as possible.

Players will receive a warning or a yellow card, even if the goal is not sanctioned for several reasons. First, climbing over the perimeter fence or approaching spectators in a way that causes safety and security issues. Second, celebrating in a provocative, insulting, or agitating manner. Third, celebrating by covering the head or face with a mask or similar object. Fourth, removing the shirt or covering the head with the shirt.

The consequence of the first yellow card is a warning, and the violation is recorded. If a player has previously received a yellow card, the second yellow card automatically results in a red card and a playing ban. There is no distinction between completely removing the shirt or just lifting it partially. Both are considered offenses if done while the ball is still in play.

The referee will issue a yellow card to any player who deliberately delays the game by pretending to take a throw-in, only to suddenly allow a teammate to take it. Second, delaying leaving the field when being substituted by another player.

Review of Ekitike's Violation

Liverpool won 2-1 against Southampton. Alexander Isak scored a goal in the 43rd minute. Southampton equalized with a goal in the 76th minute through Shea Charles. Ekitike, who came on as a substitute for Isak in the second half, scored the winning goal in the 85th minute. This goal caused Anfield to roar and secured Liverpool's place in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup.

Previously, Ekitike received his first yellow card in the 53rd minute. The offense occurred when he excessively protested to the referee, Thomas Bramall. He felt the referee was ignoring the opponent's foul, but the referee deemed his reaction excessive according to the Laws of the Game, point 12.

Ekitike expressed his emotions excessively after scoring the goal. He took off his shirt and held it up for the fans while running to the edge of the field. He imitated Lionel Messi's iconic celebration in the 2017 El Clasico match against Real Madrid. In that match, Messi lifted his shirt and showed his name to the Real Madrid fans.

Ekitike celebrated by raising his right hand to his ear and then taking off his jersey. Virgil van Dijk immediately intervened after this 10-15 second celebration. Referee Bramall approached Ekitike and gave him a second yellow card. The referee deemed the player's celebration of the goal against the opponent unsportsmanlike and in violation of the Laws of the Game. Ekitike was shocked. He held his head while walking off the field.

Slot was upset. Ekitike should have been dependable while Alexander Isak reached 100 percent fitness. The Dutch coach said players must control their emotions during matches. This includes not celebrating goals in an unsportsmanlike manner towards the opponent. "It's always the best to control your emotions. If you can't, do it in a way that doesn't lead to a yellow card," he said, as quoted by ESPN.

Meanwhile, Hugo Ekitike released an apology after the match. "I was so excited tonight to help the team achieve another victory here in our home for my first Carabao Cup match," he said, as quoted by the Independent. "The emotion got the better of me tonight. My apologies to all the Red family. Thanks to the fans who always support us and to my team-mates for securing this victory!"

Editor's Choice: UEFA to Vote on Israel's Potential Ban from International Competitions

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News

UEFA to Vote on Israel's Potential Ban from International Competitions

2 jam lalu

FIFA President: No Issue With Erick Thohir Holding Sports Minister and PSSI Chair Roles

1 hari lalu

Explained: How Footballers Are Selected for the Ballon d'Or

3 hari lalu

FIFA Chair Extends "Heartfelt Congratulations" to Erick Thohir on Ministerial Post

8 hari lalu

Indonesia's Erick Thohir Awaits FIFA Verdict on Dual Role as Sports Minister, PSSI Chair

8 hari lalu

Indonesia's FIFA Ranking Down to 119 After Goalless Draw with Lebanon

14 hari lalu

2026 FIFA World Cup: 17 Countries Qualified So Far, Morocco the Latest

18 hari lalu

Highlights from RI's 80th Independence Day: Flag Kiss, Chariot Parade, and Silat Performance

38 hari lalu

12 Unique Independence Day Celebrations Around the World

38 hari lalu

79 Tons of Waste Collected Around Merdeka Palace After RI's 80th Anniversary Celebration

38 hari lalu