The 13 Best Soccer Rivalries of All Time
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Time to read 4 min
There is something about rivalries in soccer, it gives it more fire and passion. But no, here we are not mentioning Messi vs. Ronaldo’s general clash, we are talking about club vs. club battles.
Whether formed because the other team is just down the road or because years of questionable refereeing, big tournament meetings or socio-cultural differences have built a foundation of unrest, a good rivalry adds depth and intrigue to any would-be mundane fixture.
In soccer, they are even better, in fact more intense.
Or worse, the sport has, at times, been scared by violent and discriminatory fan actions surrounding the game’s most intense matchups. But the best part of these rivalries is the raucous atmosphere, the banners, the tifos, the songs, and the passion, which is unmatched in any other sport.
So, let’s break down the rivalries in no particular order from… everywhere.
El Clásico
Barcelona vs. Real Madrid–Spain
Few rivalries in soccer come close to the sheer magnitude of El Clásico. Dating back to 1902, this fixture represents more than just club competition—it reflects deep-rooted political tensions between Madrid and Catalonia. Over the years, legends like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Zinedine Zidane have graced this fiery encounter. Whether in La Liga or the Champions League, this clash is a guaranteed spectacle.
Superclásico
Boca Juniors vs. River Plate–Argentina
Argentina’s greatest rivalry pits working-class Boca Juniors against the historically wealthier River Plate. The contrast in supporter culture alone makes this fixture a must-watch. Stadiums overflow with flares, banners, and deafening chants as these two Buenos Aires giants battle for dominance. Since their first encounter in 1913, this fixture has been a war on the pitch and in the stands.
The Old Firm Derby
Celtic vs. Rangers – Scotland
This Scottish showdown transcends the sport. With Celtic historically representing the Catholic community and Rangers the Protestant, the fixture carries religious and social weight. First played in 1888, it remains one of the most intense rivalries in soccer. Violence and heated moments have marred past matches, but the passion never fades.
Derby della Madonnina
AC Milan vs. Inter Milan –Italy
The battle for Milan has played out since 1909, with AC Milan and Inter Milan sharing the famed San Siro stadium. This fixture symbolizes class differences—AC Milan was once seen as the club of the working class, while Inter attracted the elite. The city turns into a battlefield when these two meet, with generations of fans draped in red and black soccer apparel or blue and black uniforms.
North West Derby
Liverpool vs. Manchester United –England
The rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester United is fueled by history, geography, and an undying will to dominate English soccer. Their first face-off in 1894 marked the beginning of a competition that has only intensified. The success of both clubs—United’s dominance under Sir Alex Ferguson and Liverpool’s European glory—keeps this battle at the top.
Kıtalararası Derbi
Fenerbahçe vs. Galatasaray – Turkey
Known as the Intercontinental Derby, this Turkish classic is a clash of cultures. Fenerbahçe, located in the Asian part of Istanbul, and Galatasaray, based in the European section, bring out some of the fiercest atmospheres in world soccer. Dating back to 1909, this rivalry has seen pitch invasions, flares, and even referee escorts. It’s a battle where pride matters more than points.
Der Klassiker
Bayern Munich vs. Borussia Dortmund –Germany
Germany’s greatest soccer rivalry features the might of Bayern Munich against Borussia Dortmund’s relentless challenge. The 1990s saw Dortmund’s rise to prominence, and by the 2010s, the competition had intensified. Whether in domestic battles or European clashes, Der Klassiker delivers high-octane encounters with some of the sport’s best talents.
North London Derby
Arsenal vs. Tottenham –England
This English rivalry dates back to 1909 when Arsenal relocated to North London, igniting animosity with Tottenham Hotspur. The intensity of these matches has never waned, with fans passionately backing their clubs with matching uniforms and soccer gear. Arsenal’s past dominance and Tottenham’s hunger to overtake their neighbors keep this battle alive every season.
Manchester Derby
Manchester United vs. Manchester City –England
The Manchester Derby has taken on new life in recent years, especially with Manchester City’s rise to prominence. The famous 6-1 victory by City in 2011 at Old Trafford cemented their newfound status as equals if not favorites. With the world's best players on show, this fixture continues to be one of the most-watched in soccer.
Merseyside Derby
Liverpool vs. Everton –England
Known as the ‘friendly derby’ due to the close proximity of the clubs, the Merseyside Derby is anything but gentle. With the highest number of red cards in Premier League history, this rivalry is fueled by fierce challenges and raw energy. While Liverpool has historically dominated, Everton always fights to claim local bragging rights.
Derby of the Eternal Enemies
Olympiacos vs. Panathinaikos –Greece
Greek soccer fans are next level! They literally take their support to another level, and the Derby of the Eternal Enemies is a perfect example. Olympiacos, the club of the working class, faces off against Panathinaikos, traditionally linked to the elite of Athens. Smoke-filled stadiums, fiery confrontations, and deep-seated resentment define this electrifying contest.
El Derbi Madrileño
Atlético Madrid vs. Real Madrid—Spain
Though Real Madrid is often seen as the dominant force in Spain, Atlético Madrid has never backed down from the fight. Their rivalry is rooted in class divisions—Real Madrid represents the elite, while Atlético embodies the hard-working spirit of the people. The battles between Diego Simeone’s side and the Galácticos have produced some of soccer’s most gripping moments.
Derby della Capitale
Lazio vs. AS Roma –Italy
Rome’s biggest soccer battle, the Derby della Capitale, is a match of pride, intensity, and unfiltered emotion. The rivalry began in 1929 when AS Roma was formed from a merger of local clubs, while Lazio refused to join. Since then, the fixture has seen fierce clashes, on-field brawls, and a stadium divided by unrelenting passion.
The Passion Behind Soccer Rivalries
These classic rivalries are the prime example that fans and players do not take soccer as a general game, it is a rhythm of their heart that reflects in their actions. No matter the person is from Spain, Argentina, England, Turkey, or Italy, they always support their favorite club or team with such dedication and love that makes soccer what it really is! A fiery, passionate game!
The soccer factory supports healthy rivalry, making the game more entertaining and intense. To this end, we offer numerous cleats, uniforms, and accessories so you can replicate your idols and support them on the field with full spirit. Visit our soccer store now and enjoy battles that transcend generations, where the stakes are high and the rewards are legendary.