Liverpool - Bournemouth: Antoine Semenyo targeted by racist abuse | OneFootball

The Ghanaian striker was subjected to a racist incident during the Premier League season opener.

Liverpool - Bournemouth : Anthony Taylor Antoine Semenyo - The Canadian Press

Antoine Semenyo was the target of racist abuse from a Reds supporter in the first half. This occurred during the opening match of the 2025-2026 Premier League season on Friday, August 15, between Liverpool and Bournemouth at Anfield.

A solitary act, but one with serious consequences, reminding us that the fight against discrimination is far from over. The incident took place shortly before the half-hour mark. As the match was in full swing, Bournemouth's Ghanaian striker, Antoine Semenyo, turned towards the main stand to report unacceptable comments from a Liverpool supporter. Clearly shaken, the player alerted the referee, who immediately stopped the match.

For several minutes, the refereeing team, in consultation with the match delegates and officials from both clubs, assessed the situation. The Premier League's anti-discrimination protocol was briefly activated, resulting in a short suspension of play before the match resumed in a calm atmosphere. The perpetrator was promptly ejected from the stadium, and the incident did not prevent Antoine Semenyo from scoring a brace.

Liverpool, for its part, swiftly released a statement during the match, strongly condemning the incident. “We are conducting an internal investigation in collaboration with the police and the relevant authorities. The identified supporter will face immediate sanctions, including a lifetime stadium ban if the allegations are confirmed,” the club announced. As for the Premier League, a clear message was broadcast at halftime on the stadium screens, emphasizing that racism has no place in football and that any discriminatory behavior will be met with exemplary punishment.