Anfield’s opening Premier League clash of the season between Liverpool and Bournemouth was briefly suspended in the first half after Antoine Semenyo reported being the target of racist abuse from the stands.
The match, which had started at a frantic pace, saw chances at both ends. Liverpool were left frustrated when Marcos Senesi escaped a potential red card for handling the ball as Hugo Ekitike raced through on goal. Moments later, the French striker marked his league debut by firing the Reds ahead.
However, the celebrations came shortly after referee Anthony Taylor halted the game. According to the Premier League Match Centre, the stoppage was linked to discriminatory abuse aimed at Semenyo.
Drury Confirms the Reason Behind the Pause 🎙️
Commentator Peter Drury, covering the game for Sky Sports, relayed the update live:
> “I am told by the Premier League match centre that Antoine Semenyo was subjected to a racist comment by a member of the crowd.”
Reports suggest Semenyo himself alerted Taylor, who consulted both managers — Arne Slot and Andoni Iraola — while security staff got involved. After a short break, Semenyo indicated he was willing to continue, and play resumed.
Pundits React in Disbelief ⚡
At half-time, both Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher condemned the incident, stressing how it overshadowed what should have been a celebratory night — especially after the touching pre-match tribute to Diogo Jota.
Neville said:
> “It overshadows what should be a great night. That boy has been racially abused and had to go over to a referee and tell him. It’s despicable. It will keep happening unless more is done.”
Carragher added:
> “You could see players and staff unsure of what was happening. With all the campaigns to drive racism out of football worldwide, it’s shocking to see this still taking place.”
As of now, the Premier League has yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
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