Ghana international Antoine Semenyo was subjected to racist abuse during the Premier League season opener between Liverpool and Bournemouth on Friday, Afrosport reports.
The alleged incident occurred in the first half at Anfield, with the 25-year-old reporting it to referee Anthony Taylor. The official temporarily halted the match in line with the league’s on-field anti-discrimination protocol.
Taylor subsequently spoke with the captains and coaches of both teams to inform them of the situation. He also conferred with Semenyo, who indicated his willingness to continue playing.
The Ghanaian went on to score a brace for Bournemouth; however, the Cherries were defeated 4-2, leaving Merseyside empty-handed.
Following the match, both Liverpool and the Premier League issued statements condemning the abuse. They expressed their support for Semenyo and confirmed that an investigation into the incident has been launched.
A statement from the Premier League Match Centre read: “Tonight’s match between Liverpool Football Club and AFC Bournemouth was temporarily paused during the first half after a report of discriminatory abuse from the crowd, directed at Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo. This is in line with the Premier League’s on-field anti-discrimination protocol.
“The incident at Anfield will now be fully investigated. We offer our full support to the player and both clubs. Racism has no place in our game, or anywhere in society. We will continue to work with stakeholders and authorities to ensure our stadiums are an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.”
The Reds added: “Liverpool Football Club is aware of an allegation of racist abuse made during our Premier League game against AFC Bournemouth.
“We condemn racism and discrimination in all forms, it has no place in society or football. The club is unable to comment further as tonight’s alleged incident is the subject of an ongoing police investigation, which we will support fully.”
Kick It Out also showed their support for Semenyo, adding that they “stand in solidarity’ with the player.
They said: “Thirty minutes into the first Premier League game of the season, and Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo is racially abused by someone in the crowd.
“Two nights ago, Tottenham’s Mathys Tel was racially abused online. This is a stark reminder of an ugly reality: black players are facing this every week.
“We stand in solidarity with Antoine and can’t praise him enough for his courage in calling this out after such a distressing episode before going on to score twice.
“Anthony Taylor and his refereeing team also deserve credit for acting swiftly and decisively.
“We will keep pushing to kick this disgusting behaviour out of the game through punishments, accountability and education, but football still has a long way to go.”
The incident marred a brilliant display of top-class football from both teams. Liverpool, meanwhile, began their title defence strongly, delivering an impressive performance.
