Antoine Semenyo becomes first Ghanaian player to score in the 2024/25 EPL season
Nottingham Forest began their 2024/25 Premier League season with a 1-1 draw against AFC Bournemouth, as a late goal from Antoine Semenyo denied the home side a win at the City Ground. Forest, who took an early lead through Chris Wood, were left frustrated after a resilient Bournemouth fought back in the closing minutes.
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The Reds started the match strongly, energized by their home crowd. However, their momentum was disrupted in the 8th minute when Brazilian midfielder Danilo had to be stretchered off after a collision with Semenyo, who emerged unscathed. Despite this setback, Forest continued to press and were rewarded in the 15th minute when Wood capitalized on a rebound from Callum Hudson-Odoi’s shot, giving them a deserved lead.
Bournemouth struggled to create opportunities for most of the game, with Forest dominating possession and looking the more likely to score. The Cherries thought they had equalized in the first half, but Dango Ouattara's goal was disallowed after a VAR check confirmed an offside in the buildup.
As the match entered its final stages, Bournemouth began to assert themselves, and in the 86th minute, Semenyo seized on a defensive lapse to slot home the equalizer. Forest had a chance to reclaim the lead in stoppage time, but a crucial interception from Murillo ensured the match ended in a draw.
**Match Summary**
Nottingham Forest started brightly, controlling the game and creating early chances. Their rhythm was disrupted when Danilo was forced off after a collision with Semenyo, resulting in a lengthy stoppage. Despite this, Forest took the lead in the 15th minute when Chris Wood converted a rebound from Hudson-Odoi’s shot.
Bournemouth struggled to find their footing, and although they thought they had equalized through Dango Ouattara, the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR review. Forest nearly doubled their lead before halftime, but Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto made a crucial save to keep his side in the game.
In the second half, Forest continued to press but suffered another blow when Ola Aina twisted his ankle and had to be substituted. Despite their dominance, Forest couldn’t extend their lead, and Bournemouth began to grow into the match.
The turning point came in the 86th minute when Semenyo capitalized on a loose ball in the box, firing home the equalizer. Forest pushed for a winner in the final minutes, but Bournemouth’s defense held firm, ensuring both teams shared the points.
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Antoine Semenyo was pivotal for Bournemouth, scoring a crucial equalizer late in the game. The Ghanaian striker, who was involved in key battles throughout the match, showed determination and composure to earn his side a valuable point at the City Ground.
He also became the first Ghanaian player to find the back of the net in the Premier League this season.