Victor Matfield backs France as Springboks' greatest rivals for 2027 Rugby World Cup title

His comments come in the wake of England's resurgence over the last couple of seasons, with many believing they are now the best team in Europe and potentially the second best team in the world behind the Springboks.

However, Matfield appears unconvinced by England and is convinced France still presents the biggest obstacle to the Springboks.

"France will be South Africa's biggest opposition to win it for a third consecutive time," he told the Rugby Rivals podcast.

"The previous World Cup, everyone thought so because it was at home and it was really close [in the quarter final]."

"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."

When it comes to who he thinks will play at the crucial flyhalf position for France at the next World Cup, Matfield has a clear favourite.

"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."