The opening match of the Premier League 2025/26 between Liverpool and Bournemouth was interrupted after striker Antoine Semenyo of Bournemouth accused a fans who had racist acts.
The incident occurred after about 30 minutes of competition, when Semenyo ran to the border with referee Anthony Taylor. Coach Arne Slot of Liverpool and Andoni Iraola of Bournemouth both talked to the referee, while another referee recorded the incident.
According to the information, Semenyo is preparing to perform a throw fruit when he hears a racist word from the stands. He immediately reported to referee Taylor, and the match was suspended to make an official report according to the Premier League's anti -discrimination process.
Commentator Peter Drury of Sky Sports said: “I was announced by the Premier League (Match Center) center that Antoine Semenyo has been racisted by the audience. Of course, no one from two teams or anyone who accepts it. Liverpool also shows sympathy, in addition to no more information.” He also confirmed that Semenyo was the one who actively reported the incident to the referee.
At the beginning of the second half, the Premier League executive center announced: “The match between Liverpool and AFC Bournemouth tonight was paused in the first half after the report on discrimination behavior from the stands, aimed at Antoine Semenyo. This is suitable for the anti -discrimination process on the Premier League's field. The case at Anfield will be fully investigated. Racism has no place in football or anywhere in society. ”
The English Football Federation (FA) also announced that “We are very concerned about the allegations of discrimination from the stands, were informed to the referee in the match between Liverpool and Bournemouth. These incidents were unacceptable and we would work closely with the referees, clubs and functional agencies to verify and handle appropriately.”
The match was suspended for a few minutes, the awards took advantage of drinking water while Semenyo completed the reporting procedure. Referee Taylor then continued the match.
Liverpool was a team that opened the score when rookie Hugo Ekitike scored. A few minutes later, Cody Gakpo scored to raise the score to 2-0. However, it was Semenyo who started Bournemouth's comeback in the second half with a double, bringing the match to a 2-2 balance position. However, Federico Chiesa Volley became a goal at the end of the match to help Liverpool regain the advantage, before Mohamed Salah set a 4-2 victory during extra time.
At the end of the match, coach Slot came to talk and seemed to encourage Semenyo. Bournemouth's Adam Smith teammate said: “I am really shocked that this still happens in this day. I don't understand why Ant can continue to play and score. That is not acceptable. He is a bit sad, but we will be with him. Actually, the Liverpool players are also very supportive Antoine and our whole team.
Liverpool also announced after the match: “Liverpool Football Club received racism allegations in the match against AFC Bournemouth. We condemned all forms of racism and discrimination, this is not available in society or football.
