Liverpool vs Bournemouth paused after Antoine Semenyo alerts referee to alleged racist abuse from the crowd
Updated 20:54 15 Aug 2025 GMT+1Published 20:46 15 Aug 2025 GMT+1
The Premier League opener between Liverpool and Bournemouth was paused, with Anthony Taylor speaking to both managers.
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
Liverpool and Bournemouth was stopped following the racist comment being reported. Image: Sky Sports
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 embraced by Iraola and former teammate Kerkez before the action resumed.
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.
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.
Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: Liverpool, Bournemouth, Premier League