Liverpool vs Bournemouth paused after Antoine Semenyo alerts referee to alleged racist abuse from the crowd

The first game of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign wast stopped in the first half following an alleged racist comment.

Champions Liverpool hosted Bournemouth in the opener at Anfield on Friday night in what was an an entertaining back and forth contest.

But there was a halt in play close to the half hour mark as Anthony Taylor paused the game when Liverpool won a corner before heading towards the touchline to communicate with both Arne Slot and Andoni Iraola.

After an initial period of confusion, viewers watching on Sky Sports were then informed by commentator Peter Drury that Taylor was speaking to the managers and his fourth official after a racist remark from the crowd was reported by Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo.

Stewards were also involved in the conversations.

“I am told via the Premier League Match Centre that Antoine Semenyo was the subject of a racist comment from the crowd,” Drury said.

“It was Semenyo himself who brought attention to it.”

Liverpool and Bournemouth was stopped following the racist comment being reported. Image: Sky Sports

Semenyo, who had a clash with Alexis Mac Allister after a strong battle down the right, was consoled by Iraola and former teammate Kerkez among others before the action resumed.

Sky Sports pundit condemn racist abuse to Semenyo

Discriminatory behaviour at Premier League games can result in stadium bans and legal prosecution, with fans encouraged to report abuse to the official Premier League website.

Sky Sports immediately addressed the incident when their coverage returned at half-time, with Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher passionately condemning the alleged abuse.

“It overshadows what should be an amazing night," Neville fumed.

"That boy has basically been racially abused and had to do over to the referee. It’s despicable. It’s a sorry state."

A statement from the Premier League's Match Centre soon followed, with a post on X stating: "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."

After firing in the opener against Crystal Palace in the Community Shield, Liverpool new boy Hugo Ekitike got off the mark in the Premier League by putting the Reds 1-0 up in the 37th minute.

He celebrated his goal with a tribute to the late Diogo Jota, who had a special 'You'll Never Walk Alone' rendition and minute silence dedicated in his honour before the game.

They also rose in applause in the 20th minute to remember the Portuguese forward.