10 Biggest Rivalries in Football History
From fiery local derbies to iconic clashes that span continents, football rivalries are the heartbeat of the beautiful game. These matchups go beyond mere sport, they reflect deep-rooted histories, political tensions, cultural divides, and fierce civic pride. Whether it’s two clubs separated by a few city blocks or historic titans battling for continental supremacy, these rivalries stir passion, provoke debate, and often define legacies. Here, we count down the ten biggest and most compelling football rivalries in the sport's rich global history.
El Clásico: Real Madrid vs FC Barcelona
Few rivalries carry the weight and global recognition of El Clásico. Real Madrid and FC Barcelona represent more than just two football clubs—they symbolize a long-standing political and cultural tension between Castile and Catalonia. The rivalry stretches back to the early 1900s, but it has intensified over decades through countless title battles and ideological divides. Matches often draw hundreds of millions of viewers globally, and the Messi-Ronaldo era only added to its legacy. As of now, Madrid leads the all-time head-to-head with 97 wins to Barcelona's 96.
The Old Firm: Celtic vs Rangers
Scotland’s Old Firm derby between Celtic and Rangers is one of football’s fiercest rivalries. Rooted in religious and political divisions—Catholic versus Protestant, Republican versus Unionist—the rivalry has divided Glasgow for over a century. It’s not just about bragging rights; these two clubs have dominated Scottish football, with Rangers leading the title count slightly. From the 1969 Scottish Cup Final to modern title deciders, Old Firm clashes are always emotionally charged.
Derby della Madonnina: AC Milan vs Inter Milan
The Milan derby, known as the Derby della Madonnina, showcases a city split in two. Held at the iconic San Siro, the clash between AC Milan and Inter Milan is as passionate as they come. Historically seen as a rivalry between the working-class Inter fans and bourgeois Milan supporters, it has produced legendary moments like the 2005 Champions League quarter-final and Inter’s 1965 European Cup triumph. The derby is named after the Madonnina statue atop Milan's cathedral.
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North West Derby: Manchester United vs Liverpool
Arguably England’s biggest football rivalry, the North West Derby pits Manchester United against Liverpool. Rooted in both industrial competition and football dominance, this clash represents a battle between England’s two most decorated clubs. The rivalry deepened during Sir Alex Ferguson’s era and reignited under Klopp’s Liverpool. Historic encounters include United's 1977 FA Cup win and Liverpool's 5-0 destruction at Old Trafford in 2021.
Revierderby: Borussia Dortmund vs Schalke 04
Germany’s Ruhr region hosts the fiery Revierderby, where Borussia Dortmund and Schalke 04 clash. The rivalry, born in the early 20th century, reflects the pride of two working-class communities. It's known for dramatic matches, like Schalke's comeback from 4-0 down to draw 4-4 in 2017. The derby reached peak attendance in 1969 with over 78,000 fans in Dortmund’s Westfalenstadion.
Superclásico: Boca Juniors vs River Plate
Buenos Aires' Superclásico is perhaps the most emotionally charged rivalry in football. Boca Juniors and River Plate have split the Argentine capital and its fans for over a century. The 2018 Copa Libertadores final, moved to Madrid due to fan violence, remains a controversial highlight. River emerged victorious, but the relocation stirred global debate over football and security.
De Klassieker: Ajax vs Feyenoord
Amsterdam versus Rotterdam. Ajax versus Feyenoord. De Klassieker is the Netherlands’ most historic football clash, rooted in contrasting city cultures and football ideologies. Ajax, the technical powerhouse, and Feyenoord, the gritty battlers, have had iconic meetings like the 2016 KNVB Cup final won by Feyenoord. As of now, Ajax holds the upper hand with 82 wins.
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Derby de Lisboa: Benfica vs Sporting CP
Lisbon's two giants, Benfica and Sporting CP, have fought for supremacy since the early 20th century. The Derby de Lisboa has seen some high-scoring affairs, none more infamous than Benfica's 12-2 victory in 1943. Matches are intense and often decisive in Portugal's title race, with both clubs backed by deeply loyal fanbases.
Derby della Capitale: AS Roma vs Lazio
The Rome derby is as much about civic pride as it is about football. AS Roma and Lazio divide Italy’s capital along cultural and social lines, with Roma traditionally backed by the working class and Lazio supported by more affluent districts. Notable games include Lazio's 2013 Coppa Italia win and Roma's emphatic 5-1 victory in 2000. The derby's roots go back to 1927, but its modern fervor began in the 1970s.
Eternal Derby: Red Star Belgrade vs Partizan
In Serbia, the Eternal Derby between Red Star and Partizan dominates the football landscape. Political and military ties add depth to this fierce clash, which has often spilled beyond the pitch. The 2014 Serbian Cup final and a 1999 Champions League meeting stand out in a history defined by passion and volatility. In 1975, over 108,000 fans packed into Red Star's stadium, setting an attendance record in Serbian football history.
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