Few things in football are more iconic than a player scoring a massive goal — and immediately trying to rip off their shirt in pure emotion. But sometimes, their teammates step in just in time to save them from a yellow card.
Here are some unforgettable moments when teammates literally held the celebration down:
1. Rafael Leão (AC Milan vs Fiorentina) — October 2025
Leão scored a crucial late penalty in the 85th minute and exploded with joy. He started to pull off his shirt, but his teammates quickly surrounded him, grabbing his arms and jersey to stop him from getting booked. The crowd laughed as Leão grinned, trapped under a pile of teammates holding him down.
2. Kylian Mbappé (PSG vs Marseille)
Mbappé netted a dramatic late winner in Le Classique and began tugging at his shirt — only for Achraf Hakimi and Marquinhos to rush in and stop him. They knew a yellow card could cost him in the next match, and Mbappé couldn’t help but laugh as his friends pulled him back.
3. Gabriel Jesus (Arsenal vs Manchester United)
After scoring a vital goal, Jesus went wild with emotion. But before he could pull off his shirt, Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard wrapped him up in a bear hug, stopping the celebration just in time.
4. Vinícius Jr. (Real Madrid vs Barcelona)
In one of El Clásico’s most heated moments, Vinícius scored and tried to lift his shirt over his head. Toni Kroos and Rodrygo were quick to react, holding him down with smiles and laughter, saving him from another booking.
