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Antoine Semenyo stole the show in Bournemouth’s Premier League opener against Liverpool, delivering a performance that eclipsed even Virgil van Dijk at the heart of the Reds’ defense.
The defending champions fought back to secure a 4-2 victory against the Cherries in a game which was overshadowed. The first half took a dramatic turn in the 29th minute when referee Anthony Taylor temporarily halted the match after Semenyo reported being racially abused by a supporter in the stands.
The Ghanaian forward didn't let the incident affect his performance, scoring both goals to bring Bournemouth back level before goals from Federico Chiesa and Mohamed Salah secured the three points for the Reds.
Since joining Bournemouth in January 2023, Semenyo has generally enjoyed positive outings against Liverpool. The 24-year-old marked his first encounter with the Reds in March of that year with a victory and has scored in two of his last three visits to Anfield.
However, last season Semenyo revealed that one moment stands out most from facing Liverpool: going up against Van Dijk. “Hardest defender I’d say Virgil van Dijk,” says the 25-year-old.
“That year that I signed we beat them 2-0 [1-0] and I came on in that game. I remember running in behind and all I can hear is that man’s footsteps. Dum, dum dum, chasing me.
“All I’m thinking is ‘this guy’s fast! He’s six foot four, six foot five and he is fast! Like, he’s got presence, you can hear him coming. I’m trying to focus and get my shot across and he puts me off completely. His aura just puts me off. I dragged the ball wide and I’m thinking ‘ah man.’ But it’s tough.”
However fast forward 12 months and Semenyo has made a mockery of those comments. The usually composed Liverpool centre-back came under scrutiny for his displays in both the Community Shield and the clash with Bournemouth.
The scrutiny came after he conceded a penalty that allowed Crystal Palace to fight back into the game. Liverpool ultimately left Wembley trophyless following a tense penalty shootout, with Van Dijk’s role in the outcome coming under particular question.
He wasn't the only member of Liverpool's defense to come under fire during the Premier League opener with Ibrahima Konate having a performance to forget against the Cherries.
Semenyo's brilliant equaliser drew sharp criticism from Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher, who condemned Konate after the normally dependable defender was caught out of position.
"And this Liverpool team is far too open. What is Konate doing? Oh my God, he's been absolutely shocking tonight, Konate." said the former Liverpool defender.
With the Reds next match not until Monday, August 25, at St James' Park against Newcastle United, Arne Slot's squad has plenty of time to regroup, recharge, and address any weaknesses that proved costly against Bournemouth.
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