Here's why Fifa's rules state that: While it is permissible for a player to demonstrate his joy when a goal has been scored, the celebration must not be excessive. Fifa directives also discourage the practice of choreographed celebrations when it results in excessive time-wasting and referees are instructed to intervene in such cases. Although it is not a cautionable offence in itself to leave the pitch to celebrate a goal, it is deemed essential that players return to the field as soon as possible. Interpretation is the name of the game, with referees expected to act in a "preventative mode" and to exercise "common-sense" in dealing with a goal celebration. Fifa rules state that a player must be cautioned when: In the opinion of the referee, he makes gestures which are provocative derisory or inflammatory He climbs on to a perimeter fence to celebrate a goal being scored He removes his shirt over his head or covers his head with his shirt