Saudi Pro League club Al-Taawoun have been handed a two-match stadium ban after some of their supporters were accused of taunting Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves with chants referencing the death of his close friend, Diogo Jota.Read original
The disciplinary action means Al-Taawoun will play their next two home matches behind closed doors. The club have also been fined 100,000 Saudi Riyals, approximately £20,000, over the incident.
The punishment follows footage circulated on social media showing sections of Al-Taawoun's supporters repeatedly chanting Jota's name towards Neves during their team's 6-0 defeat to Al-Hilal.
Neves Responds to Fans
Neves appeared visibly affected by the chants and was seen gesturing towards the supporters, seemingly indicating that "God is watching" as the situation unfolded.
The Portuguese midfielder later made a brief comment about the incident while passing through the mixed zone following Al-Hilal's emphatic victory.
"I hope they don't go to prayer later," Neves told reporters, appearing to question the behaviour of the supporters in light of religious teachings.
Neves and Jota had developed a close friendship during their time together at Wolverhampton Wanderers and with the Portugal national team.
Ronaldo Calls for Lifetime Ban
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo also condemned the reported behaviour and called for strong punishment against supporters who mocked Jota's death.
Ronaldo addressed the issue in a post on Instagram on Sunday, saying the league should take action against fans involved in such conduct.
"The league must take action and punish this kind of fan behavior," Ronaldo said.
"This is no longer football, and there have to be limits. People who behave like this should never be allowed to enter a stadium again."
Jota Died in Spain Car Crash
Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, died in a car crash in northern Spain in July 2025.
Jota was 28 years old at the time of his death.
The former Liverpool forward had enjoyed a successful career at club and international level and was particularly close to Neves, with their friendship dating back to their time together at Wolves and continuing with Portugal.
The incident involving the Al-Taawoun supporters has since drawn widespread attention, with the club now set to serve its two-match home stadium ban.
