The Ghana Football Association has issued a statement in solidarity with AFC Bournemouth attacker Antoine Semenyo, who was racially abused by a Liverpool fan during the 2024–25 English Premier League opening game on Friday evening.
During the game at Anfield, the Ghana international was subjected to racial abuse by a Liverpool supporter in a wheelchair, leading to a temporary halt in the match.
The incident did not only spark immediate action from the stewards and Police, who ejected the fan from the stadium, but also ignited a boarder conversation about racism in football.
Despite the ordeal, Semenyo showed a remarkable resilience, scoring twice in the second half for Bournemouth in their 4-2 defeat to Liverpool in the Premier League opener.
Fans, journalists, players and other stakeholders in football have rallied around the former Bristol City centre-forward and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) is the latest to join the campaign against racism in football.
In the recent developments, the Merseyside Police has announced the arrest of the Liverpool fan in wheelchair who racially abused the Ghanaian footballer.
Below is the statement from the Ghana Football Association to stand with Antoine Semenyo
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ghana Football Association Stands in Solidarity with Antoine Semenyo
Accra, Ghana
17th August 2025
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) stands firmly with Black Stars forward, Antoine Semenyo, following the unfortunate incident of racial abuse he endured during the season opener against Liverpool at Anfield.
The GFA condemns in the strongest terms all acts of racism and bigotry, which have no place in football or in society. While the incident is deeply concerning, what shines brighter is Antoine’s remarkable response. In the face of provocation, he chose grace over grievance, strength of character over victimhood, and unity over division.
Antoine not only showcased his exceptional talent on the pitch with two goals but also displayed extraordinary maturity and dignity off it. His statement reflected the true spirit of football; seeing the good in the football community, acknowledging solidarity, tolerance, respect, and the love for a game that unites people across the world.
The GFA applauds Antoine Semenyo for being both an outstanding footballer and an inspiring role model. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the English football community and the global football family for the immense support shown to him.
As a football community in Ghana, we stand with you, Antoine, and with all who carry the torch in the ongoing fight against racism. Together, let us continue to champion the values of equality, respect, and unity that make football truly the beautiful game.
We are proud of you, Antoine. We stand with you.
