There are many rivalries between clubs in soccer. You may have heard about the El Clasico, the Derbies between English giants, or the rivalries between Turkish giants. Regardless of the competition, these rivalries have their share of history and drama. Below we’ve listed some of the biggest soccer rivalries that make up the modern game.
El Clasico
Founded in 1899, El Clasico is one of the world’s most famous soccer rivalries. It involves rivalry between two sides of the same country. In the past, the rivalry has been marked by violence. In 2015, supporters of one team used tear gas on the players of the other, and the match was abandoned.
The rivalry is a major attraction for sports fans around the world. Whether you’re an avid soccer fan or just someone who enjoys watching the sport, El Clasico is a match to look forward to. Fans around the world have a deep passion for these teams, and they will make the effort to watch the games.
The rivalry has a long and rich history. The first meeting of the two clubs was on May 13, 1902. Numerous figures have influenced the rivalry, and some have even changed the clubs themselves. ESPN took the time to speak to many players, coaches and executives of both clubs to explore the history of the game.
Derbies between Turkish giants
Derbies between Turkish giants have a history that goes back to the early 20th century. Istanbul and Galatasaray played the first derby in 1909 and the largest game between the two saw seven goals scored. During this time, the two clubs discussed the possibility of merging to form a joint club called Turkkulubu, which would have dominated domestic football in Turkey. However, this plan was thwarted by the Balkan Wars.
Derbies between Turkish giants are considered some of the best in the world and the Istanbul derby is no exception. The fierce rivalry between the two teams is justified by good football and first-rate entertainment, but there is a darker side to this derby that most fans fail to address. Match-fixing allegations have tarnished the reputation of Turkish football, and fans have been unable to keep the negatives of the sport in check.
Rivalries between English clubs
The rivalry between Manchester United and Liverpool has been a part of the English game for many years. It goes back as far as the War of the Roses. One of the most famous rivalry matches in recent times was the FA Cup semifinal between the two sides in 1965. There were meaty challenges and some controversy, but the match ended in a 2-2 draw.
Although these two teams compete for the same trophies, it does not feel as if they are real rivals. For example, Manchester City and Liverpool have never played each other in any of the three competitions they compete in. However, their head-to-head games have been crucial to their success.
Rivalries between European clubs
Rivalries between European clubs are often quite bitter. Some rivalries are even more violent than others. The Netherlands and Germany have long been rivals, but in the 1980s the rivalry became even more virulent. After a bitter defeat in 1974, Dutch fans developed anti-German sentiment. Despite the strong sentiment, the Netherlands team beat Germany and went on to win the European Championships. The result caused a massive emotional outburst that swept through the country.
The most famous rivalry in English football is between Manchester United and Liverpool. Manchester United hold the upper hand in the domestic league, but Liverpool are much more successful in European competitions. The rivalry between the two teams has often swung throughout history, with both teams winning their fair share of trophies. In the 1960s, Bill Shankly’s Liverpool battled with Matt Busby’s Manchester United, while Joe Fagan’s Manchester United team was the team to beat in the 1970s.
Rivalries between North American clubs
Rivalries between North American clubs have been around for decades. The New York Red Bulls and DC United are noisy neighbors across the Hudson River, with a quarter century of history. One of the earliest archetypes of a rivalry in the MLS was New York playing DC for the Atlantic Cup. This week, DC United travels to Philadelphia to face the Union in Rivalry Week.
Throughout the years, these rivalries have grown and have become more competitive. The rivalry between the two teams has continued into the present, with the two teams battling it out on rinks at world championships, the Olympics, and the junior championships. The rivalry was born in a moment when the best players of the two countries met on the world stage.