Former England wing Ugo Monye criticized the late penalty decision that handed France victory on Saturday. Ben Earl was penalized for a no-arms tackle on Romain Taofifenua with less than three minutes left in the match. Monye argued that Earl did in fact offer his arm in the tackle. Despite the decision, former France hooker Benjamin Kayser agreed it was a difficult call, but acknowledged the power of Taofifenua. The controversial call sparked debate on social media, with Tight Five Rugby calling it "absurd," while others believed it was the correct decision.

Some observers noted similar tackles that went unpunished during the game.