Semenyo ‘froze’ after alleged racist abuse, court told

Antoine Semenyo froze in shock after being subjected to alleged racist abuse during a match at Anfield, a court has heard. The incident occurred on August 15, 2025, when Semenyo, then playing for Bournemouth, prepared to take a throw-in against Liverpool. Prosecutor Simon Jones stated that 47-year-old fan Mark Mogan directed an offensive slur and further abuse at Semenyo, who reported the incident to referee Anthony Taylor.

Mogan, of Dovecot, Liverpool, denies racially aggravated behaviour at Liverpool Magistrates' Court. The prosecution also alleged Mogan threw chewing gum at Semenyo, while Mogan claimed to police that he only told the player to hurry up and alleged Semenyo insulted him. Mogan was removed from Anfield at half-time, and the trial is ongoing.