Semenyo ‘froze’ after alleged racist abuse, court told

Footballer Antoine Semenyo allegedly experienced a moment of shock and silence after a Liverpool fan allegedly racially abused him during a Premier League match at Anfield, according to prosecutors. The incident occurred on August 15, 2025, when Semenyo, then playing for Bournemouth, was preparing to take a throw-in. Mark Mogan, 47, who uses a wheelchair and was sitting in the disabled section, is accused of shouting a racist insult at Semenyo.

Semenyo, who is of Ghanaian descent and has represented his country in the World Cup, reportedly froze in disbelief, unable to comprehend the offensive comment. When the ball went out of play again, Semenyo reported the incident to referee Anthony Taylor. Mogan allegedly continued to shout further abuse at Semenyo, who did not respond and proceeded with the throw-in.

Mogan was subsequently removed from the stadium at half-time. Witnesses reported seeing Mogan throw chewing gum at Semenyo, which struck the right side of Semenyo's shorts. Neighbors of Mogan in the stadium claimed they saw him approach the pitch and shouted "hurry up" before Semenyo turned towards him and appeared shocked. Another Liverpool fan alleged Mogan became "very cocky and brazen" after the incident and threatened to assault the police if they approached him.

Mogan's own account to police the following day contradicted his initial statement, claiming Semenyo called him a "cripple" and had upset him, leading to the gum-throwing incident. Prosecutors allege Mogan lied during his police interview. Semenyo is expected to give evidence via videolink in the ongoing trial, while Mogan denies the charge of racially aggravated behavior.