The Springboks secured an emphatic 73-0 victory against Wales at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, marking their 13th win out of 15 matches this season, achieving an 86.7% win record. This dominant performance also set a new record for the most points scored under coach Rassie Erasmus against Wales. However, the impressive win was significantly overshadowed by a controversial incident involving Springbok Eben Etzebeth in the final moments of the game.

With just seconds remaining until the final whistle, in the 78th minute, Eben Etzebeth was issued a straight red card for an eye gouge attack on Wales flank Alex Mann during a scuffle between players. The act of brutality quickly drew widespread condemnation from rugby fans, including many South African supporters, and calls for severe penalties. Etzebeth, who is currently the highest-capped Springbok player with 139 test caps, now faces a potential lengthy suspension following a disciplinary hearing.

The incident ignited a fervent debate online, with many supporters expressing outrage. Social media users like @Duke0fLondon labeled the act "intentional" and "assault," suggesting it transcended sport and could warrant criminal charges. Others, such as @DanMonty93 and @ScutterBucket23, called for a long ban and criticized Etzebeth for "thuggery" that could ruin his reputation. @CharlieHerb9 questioned the motive, given the Springboks' commanding lead. Even retired Springbok Bryan Habana, a player with 124 test caps, publicly condemned Etzebeth's actions on X, stating, "As great a player and person as he is, there’s no room for that in the game. Justified red card and should be facing a lengthy time on the sidelines."

According to World Rugby, previously known as the International Rugby Board, eye-gouging is classified as a serious offense and constitutes "foul play." World Rugby defines foul play as "Anything a player does within the playing enclosure that is against the letter and spirit of the Laws of the game. It includes obstruction, unfair play, repeated infringements, dangerous play, and misconduct which is prejudicial to the game." This incident echoes a similar one earlier in the year when fellow Springbok Makazole Mapimpi received a three-match suspension for an eye gouge against a Cardiff Rugby player, setting a precedent for the severity of such an offense.

Following the game, coach Rassie Erasmus expressed his dismay, stating he was at a loss for words. "It didn’t look good. I think it justified the red card," Erasmus remarked, adding that while he didn't know if "provoked" is the right word for the initial scuffle, it was "definitely not the way we would have liked to end the game." Springbok captain Siya Kolisi revealed that Etzebeth had already apologized to Alex Mann, asserting, "I’m sure he didn’t mean to do that on purpose. There’s no way." Kolisi added that he did not want the incident to overshadow what was otherwise "a good day" and a significant victory for the team.

Despite the controversy, Erasmus lauded the team's overall performance, acknowledging their hunger and effort. He highlighted the contributions of players like Asenathi Ntlabakanye and Zac Porthen, who "haven’t played for us in a while," and emphasized the importance of fighting until the end. The coach noted that the team had been building steadily, making this comprehensive win a strong end to the year for the Springboks.