Chinese national team goalkeeper Wang Dalei, who outraged the country by calling fans "hooligans" and comparing them to dogs, apologized to the nation and was suspended.
The 21-year-old footballer, who is linked to clubs such as Inter Milan and Man City, lost control and posted offensive comments on his microblog after being accused of conceding the second goal of the Japanese team.
The Japanese, considered fierce rivals of the Chinese, defeated China 3-0 in the Asian Games on Monday. A TV commentator called Dalei a "volleyball player" after his mistake.
"I sincerely apologize to the media, fans, and the entire nation for my disrespectful words, which tarnished the prestige of the national football team, sport, and China," said Wang Dalei.
"It's my fault. I hope you will forgive me and give me a second chance. I will never repeat such a mistake in the future."