Ferreira, who turns 41 in February, boarded a flight to the Netherlands on Wednesday for the Cheetahs’ first two games of the 2024/25 EPCR Challenge Cup. With experience playing for Toulouse in France, Ferreira’s knowledge will be invaluable to the Cheetahs, particularly as they face French side Perpignan in their opening match.

Speaking to OFM Sport, Ferreira acknowledged that this competition could mark the end of his illustrious career which has spanned 19 years.

Amsterdam, as our home base, is fantastic. We had a packed stadium last time, and we’re expecting the same again.”

Having played for Toulouse in the French Top 14, Ferreira is no stranger to French rugby and is eager to test himself against their formidable scrums.

“I loved my time in France,” Ferreira said. “Perpignan and Lyon are top-tier teams, and we’ll definitely be tested, but that’s exactly what we want.

‘Ferreira is confident in the Cheetahs’ depth in the front row’

“Competing against the best teams in the world is how we measure ourselves, and these teams are among the best.”

While ready to call time on his playing days, Ferreira is confident in the Cheetahs’ depth in the front row and takes pride in leaving the jersey in a strong position.

While injured at the moment, a player such as Cameron Dawson is part of the next generation in the front row for the Cheetahs, and he as a matter of interest attended the same alma mater as Ferreira – Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch.

Cameron Dawson. Photo: Morgan Piek

“Every player dreams of leaving their jersey in a better place,” he said. “Rugby has always been about the team more than the individual. I feel blessed to have had four injury-free seasons and to be ending my career on this note.”

Ferreira also touched on the challenges of playing on artificial surfaces, noting the faster pace of the game but emphasizing the importance of preparation.

“It’s a different game on artificial turf,” he explained. “It’s faster, and you know exactly what to expect across the pitch. Adjusting to smaller studs is part of the preparation, but it adds to the pace of the match.”

‘His return to the sport in 2012 was nothing short of miraculous’

Ferreira’s continued presence in rugby at nearly 41 is remarkable, particularly as a front-rower. After being forced to retire in 2009 due to injury, his return to the sport in 2012 was nothing short of miraculous, and he has been a stalwart for the Cheetahs ever since joining the team in 2021.

The Cheetahs are set to arrive in Amsterdam on Thursday, with their match against Perpignan scheduled for Sunday at 15:00 at the NCRA Stadium.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh