The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has expressed strong support for Black Stars forward Antoine Semenyo after he suffered racial abuse during Bournemouth’s Premier League opener against Liverpool at Anfield.
The match was briefly halted in the 29th minute when Semenyo reported the incident to referee Anthony Taylor under the league’s anti-discrimination protocol. Despite the abuse, the 24-year-old went on to score twice in a spirited display, though Bournemouth lost 4-2.
In a statement, the GFA condemned the act in “the strongest terms,” describing racism and bigotry as having “no place in football or in society.” It praised Semenyo for his composure and dignity, noting that he “chose grace over grievance, strength of character over victimhood, and unity over division.”
The GFA added: “Antoine not only showcased his exceptional talent on the pitch with two goals but also displayed extraordinary maturity and dignity off it. We stand with you, Antoine, and with all who carry the torch in the ongoing fight against racism.”
Merseyside Police confirmed a 47-year-old man from Liverpool was arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence. He was identified and removed from the stadium on Friday before being taken into custody on Saturday for questioning.
Semenyo addressed the incident on Instagram, writing: “Last night at Anfield will stay with me forever – not because of one person’s words, but because of how the entire football family stood together. To my Bournemouth teammates who supported me in that moment, to the Liverpool players and fans who showed their true character, to the Premier League officials who handled it professionally – thank you. Football showed its best side when it mattered most.”
Bournemouth captain Adam Smith hailed his teammate’s resilience, saying, “It shows what kind of man he is to report it to the ref and carry on. The Liverpool players were very supportive to Ant and the rest of the team.”
The Premier League has confirmed that it has launched an investigation. At the same time, the English Football Association has pledged to work with officials, clubs, and relevant authorities to ensure the matter is fully addressed.
Anti-discrimination group Kick It Out said:
“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.”
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