Despite Racial Abuse, Antoine Semenyo Shines in Premier League Opener

In what was a 4-2 loss for the Cherries, Antoine Semenyo not only set himself up to continue his ascent up the Premier League’s hierarchy, but he also helped to make Bournemouth’s case for Europe. But in a night of tribute and drama, off-field incidents might have put a damper on this Premier League opener.

(Image Credit to Getty Images/JAY Barratt)

In the first half of the Premier League opener between Bournemouth and Liverpool, forward Antoine Semenyo was racially abused by a spectator, which prompted a stoppage in the game to allow for the fan’s removal. 

Despite voicing his frustration alongside both Arne Slot and Andre Iraiola, Antoine Semenyo did successfully remain composed and was able to give his team a chance at a result. 

Outside of Semenyo’s efforts, the match was largely controlled by Liverpool.

After the first ten minutes that saw Liverpool create several chances, Bournemouth were able to get into the game and avoid some major scares until Hugo Ekitike scored his first Premier League goal in the 37th minute, making the score 1-0 Liverpool. 

Cody Gakpo would make it 2-0 shortly after halftime, putting the Reds in a strong position to come away with the three points. 

Despite being triple-teamed and well-defended for much of the match, Antoine Semenyo persevered and found his chance shortly after the hour mark, scoring in the 64th minute to make it 2-1. 

Just twelve minutes later, he would take the ball all the way from his own half to level the score at 2-2, completing a quick comeback for the Cherries and putting them just fifteen minutes away from a huge result. 

But on the verge of stoppage time, Federico Chiesa would break Bournemouth’s hearts once more, putting a short-range chance in the back of the net to make the score 3-2 for Liverpool. 

Mohamed Salah, who would be brought to tears by the post-game tribute to the late Diogo Jota, would score a late goal to seal the victory for the Reds. 

Man of the match: 

This one goes to Antoine Semenyo. Without his efforts, Bournemouth would probably have lost this game 5-0, and he did a remarkable job battling through the on-field and off-field obstacles to give his team a chance. 

What’s next:

Bournemouth will travel home to host Wolves in their second Premier League fixture, while Liverpool face a big test against a revamped Newcastle United side. 

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Article written by Noah Guttman