Football rivalries are the soul of the sport, packed with passion, pride, and history. These legendary football rivalries—fueled by political divides, city pride, and sporting dominance—have shaped the identity of clubs and their fans. From El Clásico to the Old Firm Derby, the world’s most intense football rivalries continue to create unforgettable moments.
10. Derby de Lisboa – Benfica vs Sporting Lisbon (Portugal)
The Derby de Lisboa is one of Portugal’s oldest football rivalries, pitting two Lisbon giants against each other. With Benfica leading the win tally, their most iconic result came in 1943 when they thrashed Sporting 12-2 in the Primeira Liga’s highest-scoring match. This football rivalry not only divides the city but reflects the pride of two historic institutions within Portuguese football.
| Club | Matches | Wins | Draws |
|---|---|---|---|
| Benfica | 377 | 157 | 99 |
| Sporting CP | 377 | 121 | 99 |
9. Derby della Capitale – AS Roma vs Lazio (Italy)
Rome’s football rivalry between AS Roma and Lazio, known as the Derby della Capitale, is among the most emotionally charged football rivalries in Europe. Rooted in the city’s contrasting demographics and historical divides, this football rivalry dates back to 1927. Matches like Lazio’s 2013 Coppa Italia win only fuel the bitter tension that makes this clash unforgettable.
| Club | Matches | Wins | Draws |
|---|---|---|---|
| AS Roma | 199 | 77 | 67 |
| Lazio | 199 | 55 | 67 |
8. Derby de France – PSG vs Marseille (France)
The Derby de France, or Le Classique, features the North-South rivalry between capital-based Paris Saint-Germain and coastal powerhouse Marseille. With cultural and social contrasts driving the tension, this football rivalry has produced memorable clashes like Marseille’s 3-1 win in 1993. Fan hostility has at times boiled over, proving this is France’s fiercest domestic clash.
| Club | Matches | Wins | Draws |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marseille | 99 | 43 | 28 |
| PSG | 99 | 28 | 28 |
7. Tyne-Wear Derby – Newcastle United vs Sunderland (England)
Few English football rivalries run as deep as the Tyne-Wear Derby. Originating in the 19th century, its roots predate football itself, dating back to civil conflict. The 2014 “Derby Day Massacre” and numerous red-card-laden encounters show the level of hostility when Newcastle and Sunderland meet in this intensely local football rivalry.
| Club | Matches | Wins | Draws |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newcastle Utd | 151 | 53 | 51 |
| Sunderland AFC | 151 | 47 | 51 |
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6. Revierderby – Borussia Dortmund vs Schalke 04 (Germany)
The Revierderby is Germany’s top football rivalry, reflecting the pride and grit of the industrial Ruhr region. When Borussia Dortmund and Schalke 04 face off, it’s about more than points—it’s about history and identity. The 2017-18 4-4 comeback by Schalke from four goals down is now part of Bundesliga folklore.
| Club | Matches | Wins | Draws |
|---|---|---|---|
| Borussia Dortmund | 97 | 34 | 31 |
| Schalke 04 | 97 | 32 | 31 |
5. Derby della Madonnina – AC Milan vs Inter Milan (Italy)
The Milan derby, known as the Derby della Madonnina, features the storied rivalry between AC Milan and Inter Milan. Sharing the iconic San Siro stadium, both clubs have battled for local supremacy since 1908. Matches like Milan’s 2005 Champions League win or Inter’s 1965 European triumph cement this as one of Italy’s most prestigious football rivalries.
| Club | Matches | Wins | Draws |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC Milan | 220 | 82 | 59 |
| Inter Milan | 220 | 79 | 59 |
4. Superclásico – Boca Juniors vs River Plate (Argentina)
South America’s biggest football rivalry, the Superclásico, divides Buenos Aires like no other event. Boca Juniors and River Plate embody passion and chaos. The infamous 2018 Copa Libertadores final, moved to Madrid due to violence, ended with River’s 3-1 win in extra time. But the drama off the pitch was equally intense, proving why this football rivalry is in a league of its own.
| Club | Matches | Wins | Draws |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boca Juniors | 249 | 88 | 79 |
| River Plate | 249 | 82 | 79 |
3. Northwest Derby – Manchester United vs Liverpool (England)
The Northwest Derby is England’s most decorated football rivalry, rooted in regional competition and football success. Manchester United and Liverpool symbolize their respective cities’ pride. Key clashes like United’s 1977 FA Cup win and Liverpool’s 2021 5-0 at Old Trafford make this a must-watch rivalry, with historical depth that defines English football.
| Club | Matches | Wins | Draws |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester Utd | 233 | 89 | 67 |
| Liverpool FC | 233 | 77 | 67 |
2. Old Firm Derby – Celtic vs Rangers (Scotland)
The Old Firm Derby stands out for its social and religious undertones, making it one of the most volatile football rivalries worldwide. With over 300 matches played, Celtic and Rangers dominate Scottish football. Their rivalry often decides championships, and their passionate fanbases create an electric, sometimes dangerous, atmosphere each time they clash.
| Club | Matches | Wins | Draws |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rangers | 419 | 160 | 100 |
| Celtic FC | 419 | 159 | 100 |
1. El Clásico – Real Madrid vs Barcelona (Spain)
Topping the list is El Clásico, the most iconic football rivalry on the planet. Real Madrid vs Barcelona goes beyond sport—it embodies political conflict, Catalan identity, and historical tension. From Franco’s regime to Messi vs Ronaldo, the rivalry has always been fierce. The 2011 Champions League semi-final, where Messi’s brace led Barça to glory, is one of many legendary moments in this timeless football rivalry.
| Club | Matches | Wins | Draws |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real Madrid | 245 | 97 | 52 |
| FC Barcelona | 245 | 96 | 52 |
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Q1: What is the most iconic football rivalry?
A: El Clásico (Real Madrid vs Barcelona) is widely regarded as the most iconic and followed football rivalry in the world.
Q2: Which football rivalry has the most historical matches?
A: The Old Firm Derby between Celtic and Rangers, with over 300 official matches, holds that distinction.
Q3: Are football rivalries only based on locations?
A: Not always. Some football rivalries stem from political, religious, or social differences as well.
Q4: What makes a football rivalry great?
A: Passionate fans, competitive balance, historical moments, and local or national pride all play vital roles.