By: Kwame Bediako
Ghanaian international Antoine Semenyo displayed remarkable mental strength and skill on Friday, August 15, 2025, netting two crucial goals for AFC Bournemouth against Liverpool in the opening weekend of the 2025/26 English Premier League season.
The forward, who faced racial abuse from a fan early in the match, turned adversity into motivation and put on a stellar performance that energized his team and fans.
The incident took place midway through the first half when Semenyo was targeted by a fan while attempting a throw-in. Rather than being shaken by the abuse, the 24-year-old Black Stars striker channeled his emotions into his game, refusing to let negativity dictate his performance.
His resilience was evident as he fought hard against a dominant Liverpool side in a stadium buzzing with excitement. Liverpool had seized control early in the match, benefiting from the support of their passionate home crowd.
New signing Hugo Ekitike opened the scoring in the 37th minute, capitalizing on a loose ball inside the box. The Reds extended their lead soon after halftime when Cody Gakpo struck a low, powerful shot from the edge of the penalty area in the 49th minute, leaving Bournemouth with an uphill battle.
Bournemouth’s response came through Semenyo’s quick reaction in the 64th minute, when he calmly slotted home from close range to reduce the deficit. Twelve minutes later, the Ghanaian forward showcased his technical prowess by drilling a precise shot from the edge of the penalty area to level the score at 2-2.
His goals brought hope to the visitors and highlighted his importance to the team’s attack.
Despite Semenyo’s heroics, Liverpool proved too strong in the closing stages, with Federico Chiesa scoring in the 88th minute and Mohammed Salah adding another in added time.
The 4-2 victory secured Liverpool’s first three points of the season but could not overshadow the inspirational display of Semenyo, who stood tall in the face of adversity and proved his value on English football’s biggest stage.
