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.

Merseyside Police have confirmed a man has been arrested after Antoine Semenyo reported racial abuse during Liverpool’s 4-2 victory over Bournemouth at Anfield on Friday.

The opening match of the new season was paused in the first-half after Semenyo reported an alleged incident of racist abuse.

The Premier League has said it will launch a full investigation after Liverpool 's curtain-raiser against Bournemouth at Anfield was halted when visiting forward Antoine Semenyo reported being racially abused by a spectator.

The 2025-26 Premier League season started with a six-goal thriller between Liverpool and Bournemouth on Friday, but was quickly overshadowed

Referee Anthony Taylor halted the first half after Semenyo was abused by supporter. The Bournemouth striker preparing to take throw in, was spat on and insulted by fan seated in the disabled section. Officials quickly intervened removing the individual from the stadium.

The Ghanaian forward makes a statement on opening day despite the Cherries’ defeat at Anfield.Bournemouth FC: Antoine Semenyo kicks off his season with a brace against LiverpoolAntoine Semenyo