‘We hope nothing happens to the boy’ – Portugal midfielder Ruben Neves urges authorities to show leniency to pitch invader carrying Pride flag

World Cup pitch invader — The pitch invader wore a shirt studying ‘respect for Iranian girls’ (Image: Getty)

Portugal midfielder Ruben Neves has given his help to the pitch invader who interrupted Monday’s World Cup carrying a Pleasure flag.

5 minutes into the second-half of the Group H conflict between Portugal and Uruguay, the unidentified man sprinted throughout the pitch holding aloft the rainbow flag.

He additionally wore a t-shirt which learn ‘save Ukraine’ on the entrance and ‘Respect for Iranian Girls’ on the again.

The pitch invader, believed to be Mario Ferri of Italy, dropped the flag onto the pitch earlier than he was tackled by safety stuff who dragged him away.

The World Cup has been riddled with controversy over hosts Qatar’s therapy of the LGBTQ+ neighborhood and the nation’s homosexuality legal guidelines.

The match has additionally taken place with anti-government demonstrations going down in Iran with Russia and Ukraine now of their 277th day of battle.

Talking to reporters after the match, Wolves midfielder Neves insisted ‘we're all with them and the message on his shirt’, whereas urging Qatari authorities to point out leniency to the protester.

‘After all, we're all with them and the message on his shirt as properly,’ Neves stated on the Lusail Iconic Stadium.

‘We hope nothing occurs to the boy as a result of we perceive his message and I believe all of the world understood it as properly.

‘We all know what has occurred round this World Cup. It's a regular factor that may occur.’

Portugal secured their place within the final 16 of the World Cup with a sport to spare because of their 2-0 win over Uruguay.

Cristiano Ronaldo thought he had given his aspect the lead with a glancing header 9 minutes into the second-half.

Nevertheless, the purpose was awarded to his former Manchester United teammate Bruno Fernandes who supplied the cross, with officers ruling Ronaldo had not related with the ball.

With Ronaldo subbed off, Fernandes stepped residence to roll residence a penalty in harm time to wrap up the win – denied a hat-trick along with his tremendous effort within the closing levels placing the put up.