France Rugby Defeat: Captain Antoine Dupont criticizes Referee's Performance

Antoine Dupont, the captain of France’s rugby team, made headlines in the rugby world after his team's narrow defeat to South Africa's Springboks in the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals, with a score of 29-28. The captain didn't shy away from criticising New Zealand match official Ben O'Keeffe for the referee's crucial decision in the match's concluding moments.

During a tough loss, Dupont is convinced that the referee should have penalized the Springboks for intentionally slowing the French side’s possession towards the end of the game. The game also saw other contentious decisions, including South Africa lock Eben Etzebeth’s attempted intercept and flanker Kwagga Smith’s crucial turnover at a breakdown.

Though the France skipper is wary of being "the bitter person who complains about the referee," there is a palpable sense of disappointment and frustration expressed in his comments on post-match reviewing. "There are clear things that should have been whistled. I don’t think the refereeing was at the level of what was at stake today," he stated.

France's head coach, Galthie, backed his captain's opinion, understanding and accepting the players' frustration and emotions. However, he also commended the South Africans for their excellent second-half performance and the success of their high kick game technique.

The lose marks an end to the Test rugby journeys of Uini Atonio and Romain Taofifenua, who will retire after the defeat. Galthie, whose contract with the team will last until 2028, plans to stay with the team.