There are few adventures in life to match that of a football derby, steeped in the sport’s love and passion. Here, in no particular order, are the 10 derbies to see at least once in your life.
Boca Juniors vs. River Plate (Argentina)
Dubbed the Superclásico, this derby is widely considered to be the most heated rivalry in the world of football. The game is in Buenos Aires, the atmosphere is electric, and the stakes are quite high. That incredible loyalty of both fan bases produces a spectacle like no other. Fans who want to bet on the biggest derbies live to engage with such events further should use a regulated and trusted sportsbook.
Real Madrid vs. Barcelona (Spain)
No, this is not just a match; it’s more of a cultural warfare game, capturing the centuries-old cultural rivalry between Catalonia and the Spanish mainland. El Clásico features some of the best players in the history of football and has millions of viewers across the globe, making it an event that must not be missed.
Celtic vs. Rangers (Scotland)
The infamous Old Firm derby has a history and rivalry that runs deep, with cultural and religious undertones. It is one of the fiercest derbies in football due to its passionate fans and often intense atmosphere at both Ibrox and Celtic Park.
Manchester United vs. Liverpool (England)
The rivalry between two of England’s most successful clubs is one of fierce competition and a rich history. The North West Derby never fails to deliver tension and excitement, with crowds and viewership figures that match the scale of the fixture.
AC Milan vs. Inter Milan (Italy)
This derby is the Milanese battle for dominance among two of Italy’s most storied clubs. That generates a wonderful environment in the famous San Siro, burning with intensity from both supporting sides.
Fenerbahçe vs. Galatasaray (Turkey)
The match is called Intercontinental Derby and splits Istanbul between the Asian and European sides. Fans are passionate and encounters, both on and off the pitch, can be intense.
Flamengo vs Fluminense (Brazil)
The Fla-Flu derby is one of the biggest rivalries in Brazil, with no shortage of history shared between these two clubs in Rio de Janeiro. Every soccer fan should experience the electric accent of the Maracanã Stadium atmosphere at least once.
Borussia Dortmund vs. Schalke (Germany)
The Revierderby is one of the most intense rivalries in all of Germany, featuring two sides from the Ruhr region with a long, competitive past. The games have attracted spirited support from either side, which makes for an exhilarating and high-charged event.
Arsenal vs. Tottenham Hotspur (England)
This longstanding rivalry has blossomed over the years thanks to the geographic closeness and competitive nature of the two schools. When these two London clubs have a chance to lock horns, their clashes are always fixtures of intense footballing drama.
Al Ahly vs. Zamalek (Egypt)
This Cairo derby is one of Africa’s biggest rival games, as both teams have huge numbers of fans and decorated trophy cabinets. The matches are fierce, as are the local fans.
Watching any one of these derbies will undoubtedly be one of the most memorable experiences in a fan’s life, with the display of fervour, culture, and footballer spirit.