Ronaldo Demands Lifetime Bans After Fans Taunt Ruben Neves

Shocking Chants in Saudi Pro League

Al Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves was targeted by opposing fans during his team's match on Saturday. Supporters of Al Taawoun chanted the name of Diogo Jota, the late Portuguese player who died in a car crash in July 2025. Jota and his brother were killed in the accident in Zamora, Spain.

Neves was standing next to his teammate Crysencio Summerville before taking a free kick when the chants started. He reacted by sarcastically applauding and giving a thumbs up to the crowd. He then pointed to the sky and his own eye before pointing toward the section of fans making the noise.

After the match, the midfielder walked through the mixed zone and spoke to reporters. He said, "I just hope they don't go to pray later after what they did."

Ronaldo Calls for Lifetime Bans

Cristiano Ronaldo has spoken out strongly against the behavior of the supporters. Ronaldo, who plays for Al Nassr, was a teammate of both Neves and Jota with the Portugal national team. He wants the Saudi Pro League to identify and ban the fans involved forever.

Ronaldo shared his thoughts on social media. "The league must take action and punish this kind of fan behavior. 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," he wrote in an Instagram comment.

A Close Bond Between Teammates

The chants were deeply personal for Neves. He and Jota had a long history together, having played in the youth systems for Porto and Portugal. They later became teammates in England with Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Neves served as a pallbearer at Jota's funeral. He also took over Jota's number 21 shirt for the Portugal national team last year.

Al Hilal Stay Top of the League

The incident overshadowed a dominant performance on the pitch. Al Hilal kept their place at the top of the Saudi Pro League with a 6-0 victory over Al Taawoun.

Gabriel Martinelli led the way for Al Hilal by scoring a hat trick. England international Ollie Watkins also made an impact, scoring two goals in the win.