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Ruben Neves targeted by chants for late friend Diogo Jota
During a Saudi Pro League match between Al-Taawoun and Al-Hilal, Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves was targeted by Al-Taawoun supporters who repeatedly chanted the name of his late close friend, Diogo Jota. Jota, a former Portuguese international, tragically died in a car accident in Spain in July 2025.
Neves reacted to the provocation by gesturing toward the sky and later told media, “I hope they don’t go to pray afterwards.” The incident has sparked widespread condemnation within the football community. Cristiano Ronaldo, a teammate of Neves in the Portuguese national team, called for severe disciplinary action, stating, “The league must take action and punish this kind of fan behaviour. This is no longer football, and there have to be limits.” Ronaldo suggested that those responsible should face lifetime stadium bans.
Al-Hilal has filed an official complaint with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, condemning the use of personal tragedies to target players. Al-Taawoun management also issued a statement distancing the club from the actions of the specific individuals involved.
Entities
Al-Hilal · Al-Taawoun · Cristiano Ronaldo · Diogo Jota · Ruben Neves