Victor Matfield believes France will be the Springboks’ biggest obstacle in their quest for an unprecedented third straight Rugby World Cup title in Australia in 2027.
Speaking on the Rugby Rivals podcast, the former Bok lock did not hesitate when asked who poses the greatest threat to South Africa’s crown.
“France will be South Africa’s biggest opposition to win it [the World Cup] for a third [consecutive] time. The previous World Cup, everyone thought so because it was at home and it was really close [in the quarter final].”
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Matfield pointed to the depth and evolution within the French squad as a major warning sign for the defending champions, particularly with some of their leading clubs setting the standard in Europe.
“I think they’ve still got a young team and they’re still bringing new players in all the time. You think they’re set on certain players, then new guys come in, and they’re just outstanding. Again, if you look at European rugby at the moment, Bordeaux and Toulouse are probably the two teams dominating that. If you put those players together – the flair that they’ve got, the physicality up front.”
The Bok centurion is also clear on who should steer Les Bleus at flyhalf.
“I’m a big fan of Mathieu Jalibert. I just think he’s outstanding – for Bordeaux, for France – and for a long time, I think they tried to keep him out of the side to keep that spot for Romain Ntamack. But I just think he’s so much better and he’ll bring so much more to that French team.”
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Photo: Warren Little/Getty Images
The post Big Vic names Boks’ biggest threat at RWC 2027 appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
