The Saudi Football Federation and the Saudi Pro League have condemned “unacceptable behavior” after supporters targeted Portuguese midfielder Ruben Neves with chants referencing the death of his former teammate and close friend Diogo Jota.
Jota died at the age of 28 in July 2025, and the chants occurred during Al-Taawoun’s match against Al-Hilal on Sunday. Neves later reacted to the incident, saying: “I just hope they don’t go and pray after what they’ve done.”
Cristiano Ronaldo has also condemned the chants, adding his voice to the growing criticism of the incident. Al-Hilal strongly rejected the supporters’ behavior, particularly when it targets players, their families or personal lives. The club also confirmed that it had filed a formal complaint with the Saudi federation to protect the rights of the club and its players.
The Saudi authorities’ response reflects the seriousness of an incident that has drawn widespread condemnation across football. Al-Hilal has called for firm action against such behavior, while the federation and the Saudi Pro League have reiterated their rejection of chants that cross the line between sporting rivalry and personal attacks.
