Cooper condemn fans’ chants aimed at Al-Hilal’s Ruben Neves

Al-Taawoun have condemned insulting chants directed at Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves by some of their supporters during the Saudi Pro League meeting between the clubs.

Al-Hilal won the match 6-0 away from home, with the game overshadowed by chants aimed at the Portugal international from sections of the Al-Taawoun crowd.

In a statement published on the club’s website, Al-Taawoun said: “Al-Taawoun Club expresses its condemnation and outright rejection of the insulting chants directed at one of Al-Hilal’s players during the match between the two teams by some individuals.

“Such behaviour is completely unacceptable and does not represent Al-Taawoun, its supporters or the values for which our stands are known.

“Sporting competition cannot be used as a justification for insulting, belittling or bullying others at the expense of anyone’s feelings. Saudi sport draws its values from the principles of our society and the teachings of Islam, and is based on respect, fair competition and preserving everyone’s dignity.

“The club stresses that any chants or actions which go beyond the limits of sporting support are individual acts and must not be attributed to the Al-Taawoun supporters, whom we value for their awareness and their history of standing behind the club in a sporting and responsible manner.

“The club also firmly rejects any insult, regardless of its source or target. We will take all necessary measures with the relevant authorities to ensure this does not happen again and to deter anyone who behaves offensively.

“Al-Taawoun will remain committed to supporting a high-quality sporting environment worthy of the name, standing, values and reputation of Saudi sport.”

What happened?

During the match, Al-Taawoun supporters attempted to provoke Neves by chanting the name of his late friend, Diogo Jota.

Neves responded to the taunts by raising his hand towards the sky.

After the final whistle, Neves addressed the Al-Taawoun supporters in the media area, saying: “I only hope they don’t go to prayer later.”

Al-Nassr captain Cristiano Ronaldo called for the supporters involved to be punished for their conduct.

Al-Hilal also issued a statement confirming that it had submitted a complaint to the Saudi Football Federation over the behaviour of the Al-Taawoun fans.

Former Liverpool forward Jota died in a tragic accident during the previous year. He was one of Neves’ closest friends in football, having played alongside him at Wolverhampton and with the Portugal national team.