Saudi Pro League criticized over response to Diogo Jota chants
The Guardian
The short version
- Fans directed chants about the late Diogo Jota at Rúben Neves, according to The Guardian.
- The Saudi Pro League was criticized for what many saw as a lenient punishment.
- The incident followed Al-Taawoun's 6-0 home loss to Al-Hilal, with Ollie Watkins and Gabriel Martinelli scoring five goals between them.
- Cristiano Ronaldo posted about the events to his Instagram followers on September 13.
The Saudi Pro League faces scrutiny after fans directed chants about the late Diogo Jota at Rúben Neves, with many viewing the league's punishment as too lenient.
The Saudi Pro League is facing criticism over its handling of abusive chants aimed at Rúben Neves that referenced his late Portugal teammate Diogo Jota. Observers have suggested the league's punishment for the incident was too lenient.
According to The Guardian, the episode began after Al-Taawoun lost 6-0 at home to Al-Hilal on Saturday, September 12. Al-Hilal forwards Ollie Watkins and Gabriel Martinelli combined for five of the goals in the rout.
Cristiano Ronaldo addressed the events in a post to his Instagram followers on Sunday, September 13, drawing further attention to the incident. The report noted that increased global coverage of the Saudi Pro League brings greater scrutiny when controversies arise.
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Written by the Matchday Live desk from reporting by The Guardian.
Read the original report at The Guardian ↗