Rassie Erasmus Reacts to Eben Etzebeth’s Red Card in Springboks’ Win Over Wales in Cardiff
- Rassie Erasmus has commented on Eben Etzebeth's late red card in South Africa's win over Wales this weekend
- The Springboks star was sent off in the 79th minute for an alleged eye-gouge on Wales flanker Alex Mann
- Social media users have also shared their opinion on Etzebeth's red card against Wales in Cardiff
South Africa rugby national team head coach Rassie Erasmus has shared his thoughts on Eben Etzebeth's red card during the Springboks' win over Wales in Cardiff on Saturday, November 29, 2025.
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The Springboks thrashed the Welsh rugby national team 73-0, but the sweet victory was marred by Etzebeth's late red card after the 34-year-old was dramatically sent off for an alleged eye-gouge.
Referee Luc Ramos sent him off after he allegedly made contact with the left eye of Wales flanker Alex Mann in a late-game scuffle. Eben’s thumb seemed to brush across Mann’s face, leaving the officials with no real alternative.
With his tally rising to a record 141 Tests, Etzebeth may now be staring at a major suspension that could derail the start of his 2026 season, which raises questions about the consequences for his playing career. He joins Lood de Jager and Franco Mostert on the list of Boks stars who have been sent off during the tour.
Erasmus reacts to Etzebeth's red card
Erasmus commented on Eben Etzebeth’s late red card, stating he was unsure of what to say at the time but admitted that it did not look good and felt the decision was justified. He added that he wasn’t certain whether Etzebeth had been provoked, but stressed that such behaviour was not how they wanted to play.
He also offered words of encouragement for Wales, noting that things can change quickly and that a lot can shift within a year.
Erasmus pointed out that Wales had lost many experienced players in a short period, players he had coached against who understood the Welsh mindset and identity, emphasising the importance of retaining their core group. He said that losing around 15 players at once is difficult, but that things would eventually come right for them.
The bulk of the Springbok coaching staff and a group of players are scheduled to depart for South Africa on Sunday and are expected to return home or to their respective provincial unions and clubs on Monday.
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Here is what fans are saying about Etzebeth's red card against Wales on social media.
Mina Adams said:
"Something happens, Eben doesn't just fight first, why didn't they show from the start how it happened?"
Lee Rossouw wrote:
"It was a Wales player who did it first. Go back a few seconds on the clip when they were on the floor. Elbow in the face and fingers in the eye of Etzebeth. Though he was wrong to retaliate in that manner. I just don't understand why they did not show that part in the TMO. Both should get red cards. Not just Eben for retaliation
Dawn Von Blerk shared:
"Retaliation does not justify what he did at all, but there are always 2 sides to a story (well, 3)"
Damien Bradshaw reacted:
"Welsh player grabbed Eben's balls... No Video evidence, just hearsay! Jokes aside, this put a damper on the game, totally reckless IMO, and now that's all the press will talk about once again!"
Richard Mitchell commented:
"That has to be the understatement of the year. The other from the captain is right up there; he didn’t mean to do it. How about growing up and saying that it is unacceptable for any player to eye-gouge another player?"
Oabile Vivian Mphafe
"He did something that triggered him to gouge his eye. South African players are cool🤞"
Mostert's red card rescinded
Briefly News also reported that the World Rugby disciplinary committee has taken a new decision after reviewing the controversial red card handed down to Mostert against Italy.
There was outrage and anger from Springboks fans on social media after Mostert was sent off for a so-called ‘high tackle’ against the Azzurri.
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Proofreading by Roxanne Dos Ramos, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.
Source: Briefly News
