The Saudi Arabia Football Team Didn’t Line Up For A Minutes Silence For The London Attack Victims But It Was All A Misunderstanding
A minute’s silence was held yesterday in a football match between Saudi Arabia and Austrailia for the victims of the London terrorist attack last week. Two Australians were among the eight victims in London.
It is a tradition for the stadium to go quiet and for both sets of players to line up either side of the center circle. However, images went viral on social media of the Austrailia team lined up, while the Saudi team was dispersed on their side of the pitch.
A statement by the Austrailian FA said that the Saudi team agreed to the minute’s silence, but would move to their side of the pitch while it was taking place as it was against their tradition. It looked as though it wasn’t respectful, however, no disrespect was intended.
The Saudi Football Association issued a statement to apologize for the confusion and any offense caused.
‘The players did not intend any disrespect’
“The players did not intend any disrespect to the memories of the victims or to cause upset to their families, friends or any individual affected by the atrocity, The Saudi Arabian Football Federation condemns all acts of terrorism and extremism and extends its sincerest condolences to the families of all the victims and to the government and people of the United Kingdom.”
Saudi Football Association statement
Social media didn’t react too well after the image was shared
However, FIFA won’t take any action and recognize the misunderstanding
Austrailia won the match 3-2 remain ahead of the UAE in the Russian 2018 world cup qualifying group
