Ruben Neves hits back at Al-Taawoun fans after Diogo Jota chants
By Joel Masibo, September 13, 2026Ruben Neves was left angered by the behaviour of Al-Taawoun supporters despite Al-Hilal cruising to a 6-0 victory in their Saudi Roshn League encounter in Buraidah on Saturday, September 12, 2026.
The Portugal midfielder became the target of chants from sections of the home crowd who repeatedly used the name of his late friend and former international team-mate, Diogo Jota.
The incident appeared to upset Neves, with footage circulating on social media showing the Al-Hilal player confronting supporters during the match.
Neves was seen pointing upwards towards the sky while telling the fans: “God sees you.”
The midfielder did not discuss the confrontation at length after the final whistle. However, when asked about the incident while passing the media, he delivered a brief but strongly worded response.
“I hope they don’t go to prayer later after what they did,” Neves said.
His reaction came after supporters appeared to use Jota’s name as a way of provoking him during the match.
The chants carried added significance because of the close friendship between Neves and Jota, which stretched back several years.
The pair first became acquainted during their time in Porto’s youth system before later playing together at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Their relationship continued when they represented Portugal at international level.
Jota subsequently established himself as an important player for Liverpool after moving to Anfield in 2020. His pace, pressing ability and finishing made him a key attacking option for the club, while his performances in major matches earned him a strong following among Liverpool supporters.
The Portuguese forward also played an important role in Liverpool’s pursuit of domestic and European honours, regularly producing goals at crucial moments.
Jota died alongside his younger brother André Silva, who was also a professional footballer, in a road accident in Spain on July 3, 2025.
His death prompted an outpouring of grief throughout the football community, with Liverpool, Portugal and clubs and players around the world paying tribute to him.
Neves has previously spoken about the emotional impact of losing Jota, with their friendship having developed through years of playing together at club and international level.
That background made the incident involving the Al-Taawoun supporters particularly sensitive for the Al-Hilal midfielder.
While the Saudi club secured an emphatic victory on the field, the confrontation in the stands became the main talking point surrounding Neves after the match.