GFA condemns racist attacks on Semenyo and praises him for “remarkable response” in the face of provocation

The Ghana Football Association GFA has condemned the racist attacks on Black Stars forward, Antoine Semenyo.

Semenyo was racially abused on Friday night during AFC Bournemouth’s Premier League opener against Liverpool.

The Ghanaian international reported the incident to referee Anthony Taylor, who stopped the match before the fan was promptly removed from Anfield by police officers on duty.

In a statement released on Sunday morning, the GFA said it ”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.”

The GFA also praised Semenyo for his remarkable restraint in the face of extreme provocation.

”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.”

Since the incident, Liverpool captain Virgil Van Dijk, Premier League CEO Richard Masters and FIFA president Gianni Infantino have all shown solidarity to the Ghanaian international.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.